Family of Young Boy With Duchenne MD Aims to Raise Awareness of the Disease

A family from Bridgend, Wales, U.K. has vowed to channel their energy into raising awareness of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, after a member of their family was diagnosed with the disease.

MORE: Boy with Duchenne muscular dystrophy made an honorary police officer.

Kirsty Smith first realized something was amiss with her five-year-old son, Harvey, when his pediatrician noticed how clumsy he was and ordered some tests. After months of testing, Harvey was sent to Great Ormand Street children’s hospital in London where he was finally diagnosed with Duchenne MD.

According to a report on walesonline.co.uk, the five-year-old now needs a wheelchair to get around. He has pain in his muscles that cause him to fall over frequently and sleeps in leg splints to help prevent his legs from turning inwards.

Despite these challenges, Harvey is a happy boy who loves going to school and playing with his friends. His determination and positive outlook have rubbed off on the rest of his family, who now sell wristbands online to help raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK and the Starlight charity which grants wishes to sick children.

MORE: Hip Hop for MD raises money for Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

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.