This month, I’m celebrating my birthday and disability inclusion

This Saturday, I turn 30. My birthday lands on the same day that many of us in Singapore, where I live, will wear purple for our annual disability inclusion event, the Purple Parade.

In the past three decades, I’ve marked many milestones with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a genetic condition that weakens my muscles over time. For this one, I feel both tender and brave. I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

For readers outside Singapore, the Purple Parade is our largest public event to support inclusion for persons with disabilities. It features music, people wearing purple, and a carnival of booths run by disability organizations and allies. The message is simple: Disabled people belong in every part of society.

Last August, Singapore marked 60 years of independence. If I’m blessed enough to reach 60 myself, I hope to reflect the same mix of determination and care that my community has shown me.

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September 30, 2025 by DJ Kimble

At 45, I’m aware of the many turns along my Duchenne MD path

Here’s to us!

Like Singapore, my life began with an unexpected turn. When Singapore gained its independence from Malaysia in 1965, our leaders faced an uncertain future. Yet they were determined to build a new republic.

I arrived two weeks early with a kidney problem. A prenatal test suggested I hadn’t inherited the gene that causes DMD, but the sample was contaminated. My parents learned the truth when I was 3 months old, just before I had kidney surgery. I survived the surgery, and my parents pressed on, one day at a time, just like Singapore did in its early years.

Today, I live, work, and love with Duchenne in full view. I write this column as a patient advocate. I contribute to brand storytelling at Shalom Medcare, a wheelchair-accessible medical transport service. I co-lead Rebirth Ensemble with my girlfriend, Amanda, a visually impaired artist. Together, we design tactile and inclusive art experiences that allow both blind and sighted audiences to connect through touch and sound.

The road has never been smooth. I’ve experienced grief and fear, especially after my brother, Isaac, died from Duchenne at the age of 28. I’ve also learned kindness from my parents, caregivers, Amanda, and the steady presence of a community that keeps showing up. That is why the Purple Parade deeply matters to me. It’s not just a festive gathering, but a promise that people like Isaac and me have a place in Singapore’s story.

At 30, I’ll toast to my parents who persevered, to Isaac, whose legacy continues through me, to Amanda, whose love strengthens me, and to the work that lies ahead. I’ll raise my cup to every person living with Duchenne, and to a city that continues to make space for us.

Note: Muscular Dystrophy News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Muscular Dystrophy News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to muscular dystrophy.