Monday 22 September 2014

REACHING OUT

A few years ago it wasn't easy to explain to people in Kenya what muscular dystrophy entailed and what type of condition it was. A lot has  changed recently and many people are now getting familiar with  the condition.

Muscular dystrophy is an inherited condition that affects the muscles making them weak and waste away over time. MD is not arthritis, multiple sclerosis or polio. The three affect mobility but they are not muscle wasting conditions.

We appreciate the efforts made by those affected with MD in Kenya for they are all creating awareness in their individual rights which is a good thing.

We are reaching out to every one affected by MD in Kenya and our efforts have born fruit. The membership is growing from Nairobi, Nanyuki, Thika, Nyeri, Mombasa to Kisumu.

It wasn't easy, the journey has just began. We look forward to offer support to those who need our help and not dwell on awareness only.

Sunday 7 September 2014

WORLD DUCHENNE AWARENESS DAY

This is the first WORLD DUCHENNE AWARENESS DAY and September being the month set  aside to create awareness about muscular dystrophy, it our duty at Mudak to continue with our work of creating awareness.

Duchenne. The most common form of muscular dystrophy in children,
Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects only males. 
It appears between the ages of 2 and 6. Difficulties may arise during diagnosis especially where there is no family history.
 There is usually delay in growth the first steps of a child with DMD may occur at around 18 months.
 A boy with DMD may fall frequently and often has difficulty climbing stairs, jumping, running and may also develop a waddling gait. 

With the current breakthroughs in research, there is light beyond the tunnel and cure is in the horizon. Muscular dystrophy is a challenge to the whole family because each family member is affected in one way  or the other.

In Kenya hopefully things will change for the better for all living with muscular dystrophy. Young boys with duchenne need specialized care so that their lifespan can be increased.
This day should not go to waste....  

The Duchenne Timeline- WORLD DUCHENNEAWARENESS DAY