The Duchenne Heroes took on another great challenge last September. These sports enthusiasts got on their mountain bikes for the annual, multi-day off-road ride. What have they encountered there? Tough trails with steep climbs, a serious test of strength and unprecedented togetherness. Because these tough guys are fighting together for a good cause. Statler BI sponsored the Just do it team.
The sponsor money raised will go to the Duchenne Parent Project. This club of parents has been dedicated to the cure and treatment of Duchenne disease for 25 years. Chances are you’ve never heard of this disease. At least not us, until a (former) colleague of Yumen Bionics told us about it at the coffee machine. Duchenne is a progressive muscle disease that mainly affects boys. At a young age these children are less mobile and the strength in their hands and arms decreases rapidly. Stefan, himself the father of three naughty boys, was touched by the story. The Duchenne Parent Project certainly doesn't sit still and, among other things, founded Yumen Bionics in 2016. This company makes devices in the form of a 'skeleton' that supports arms and a sensor platform; the technology provides insight into arm movement and fatigue.
We also wanted to do something ourselves - and that was possible by sponsoring Duchenne Heroes. Our' team from Yumen Bionics delivered quite a performance because the tour counts seven stages through various countries in the Benelux. So their fitness was put to the test.
This is what we do it for!
Our bodies are made up of 30% muscle. This allows us to walk, write, play soccer, dance... Everything that makes life fun and worthwhile. If you are born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, your muscles slowly break down. The muscle tissue is converted to fat or scar tissue. Boys in particular suffer from this muscle disease. From the age of 14, most rely on a wheelchair. Their arm and hand function also declines, making them increasingly dependent on others.
Scientists are looking for ways to repair the DNA and slow down the disease. In 1990, the average life expectancy was 19 years; today it is 30 years. But each person is unique. Thus, the average Duchenne patient does not exist. What someone can still do depends, among other things, on their clinical picture. With support, much is possible, and you can be a full part of society. That is what we strive for!
Want to help?
The Duchenne Parent Project has already accomplished a lot, but additional support is always welcome. Want to know more, donate yourself or sponsor a team? Check out the website.