"Battle Panthers" Ladies T-Shirt

Tommy is a 16 year old high school junior from Orchard Park living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Duchenne is a genetic disorder characterized by the progressive loss of muscle. It is a multi-systemic condition, affecting many parts of the body, which results in deterioration of the skeletal, cardiac (heart), and pulmonary (lung) muscles. Duchenne affects approximately 1 out of every 5,000 live male births. The average life expectancy of someone with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is the mid-late 20s, although recent improvements in therapies and understanding of the disease allow some men to live into their 30s. Duchenne is 100% fatal and there are precious few medical treatments available.

Since starting high school, Tommy has lost the ability to walk independently and he now relies on a power wheelchair. He also needs assistance with everyday activities of living. This rapid progression and loss of independence has brought with it many challenges as our world is not completely accessible and insurance often does not cover all the expenses needed to support people like Tommy at home such as wheelchair adaptations in his home or a generator to power his medical equipment.

Tommy loves sports and enjoys traveling to play sled hockey. In order to give him the best quality of life possible, in addition to home modifications and equipment, he hopes to obtain a travel wheelchair and portable hoyer lift which will make road trips easier for him and his family. Our end goal is ensure that Tommy can age with comfort and dignity in his home and out in the community.

Please consider a purchase or donation to his online fundraiser.