SCOTT SANDS ALIVE

I have compiled a simple FAQ about the dreaded disease called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Here’s the basic scoop on DMD, presented Scott Sands Alive-style:

What the heck is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
DMD is a genetic progressive muscle disorder characterized by a gradual deterioration and loss of strength and bodily function.

Is DMD contagious?
OK, so what part of genetic do you not understand???

What causes DMD?
The lack of an essential muscle protein in the body called dystrophin, which holds muscles together. Basically, without dystrophin, muscles gradually degenerate – they break apart, wither and die.

Who commonly gets DMD?
Boys. Makes me wonder if God is actually a woman.

What bodily functions are affected by DMD?
Mobility, breathing, speech, chewing, swallowing, heart-beating, bowel moving…basically all functions involving, say, MUSCLE!!!

Does everyone with DMD follow the same rate of progression?
No. Some deteriorate more rapidly than others, and some die at a much younger age.

What happens when DMD gets to the most vital muscle, your heart? You’re basically screwed! You’re handed a death certificate with an empty space for you to fill in the date and time.

Is DMD a fatal disease?
OK, so what part of death certificate do you not understand???

What is the life expectancy for someone with DMD?
This is impossible to determine. Well, research scientists and physicians will tell you that survival is not expected beyond the age of 25. I have DMD, and I am now 43. You do the math.

Is there a cure for DMD?
Yes! And the tooth fairy really does exist!

Does it totally suck to have DMD?
Not really. DMD is like a big fluffy doggie that you just want to hug. Hey, don’t be a moron – of course it sucks!

Is having DMD the end of the world?
Absolutely not! Many of us lead very fulfilling lives despite this disease.

For more detailed information on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, simply visit these websites:

Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy Association