I had a fifty-fifty chance of inheriting the gene from my mother. I didn’t. But my little brother did. I feel a lot of guilt but all I can do is give my time, money or muscles – sometimes all three – to make a difference for others who are affected by neuromuscular disorders
William Truman
William Truman is a Fire Fighter from Quebec. He’s also a father, friend, son, brother and generous supporter of Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC).
Will and his brother Joe, separated by just a year and a half, grew up extremely close. Despite being diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), Joe was always laughing and was such a happy little boy. As a protective older brother, watching Joe grow up with so many challenges was very difficult for Will and brought up a lot of feelings of guilt.
It’s hard not to get emotional when I hear stories like this from families affected by neuromuscular disorders. When Will and I spoke about why he supports MDC, I knew I had to share it with you.
But before I go any further, let me say thank you. It is because of the continued support of donors like you that we are seeing great change and momentum in neuromuscular research.
Will longed to see research advances in Joe’s lifetime.
We are making progress, but there is still a long way to go before we find cures. I’m asking you to help us continue this momentum by making a donation today.
When Will was a kid, MDC helped his family purchase equipment and provided them with supportive services. Having MDC as a partner in Joe’s journey, their journey as a family, was so impactful.
That’s why Will feels that it’s so important to support MDC. He knows exactly how much you are helping families. Right now, and in the future. In his words:
It’s impossible to not find reward in supporting MDC. My favourite part is meeting the children who participate in events like the High Rise Challenge. Seeing their shy smiles, seeing it change to not so shy when they get to sit in the fire truck. That’s why I raise funds – to help moms and dads who are going through what my parents experienced so that their stories have a different ending.
The future is promising. In 2021, the first-ever gene therapy clinical trial for DMD is taking place in Canada and new therapies are in development. We know the breakthroughs we make in research are not isolated to one neuromuscular disorder and will lead to even more new trials and treatments.
Your unwavering support is critical as we work with research, clinical and academic communities to relentlessly search for treatments and cures.
Your support will make the world a little brighter for families on this journey.
I am so grateful when supporters like Will share their story with the hopes of motivating others to give back as well. At MDC we are a powerful community and the impact we make is because of you.
I am so proud of how far we’ve come and where we’re going. Thank you for changing someone’s tomorrow – today!
Stacey Lintern
Chief Executive Officer
PS. Your gift today will help ensure families in the future will benefit from the emerging research as we get closer to cures.
PPS. Making your donation is easy. Simply click here or you can also call 1-800-567-2873 toll-free to make a gift by phone.
