DMD stands for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a disorder that causes muscle deterioration, due to a missing or malfunctioning Dystrophin gene.

Someone who has DMD and lived longer than many medical professionals and family members expected. The first generation of people with DMD to utilize mechanical ventilation, personal computers, and other medical technologies, to enhance and lengthen their lives.

Most of us use some sort of breathing assistance and have reasonably healthy hearts. As we age breathing becomes more difficult and requires us to use respiratory assistance either through a tracheostomy or a mask. (See the Respiratory Page for additional information.)

Also, with age our hearts can begin to weaken, but with new medications it is possible to control heart problems. (See the Cardiac Page for additional information.)

Yes, but we're limited in our career choices because of our physical limitations.  Computers and Assistive Technology have allowed us to become writers, web designers, graphic artists, salesmen, business owners, and much more.

Yes, but it is very rare.  Girls must have two defective or missing Dystrophin genes, while boys only require one.

Some are, but meeting the right person can be difficult.

Yes, having DMD does not affect our ability to have children.

It really depends. Assuming we have a child with a woman who doesn't carry the bad Dystrophin gene, boys would almost always be free of DMD, but girls would be carriers.

While major progress has been made with treating the disease, a cure has not been found and is not likely anytime soon.  However, we do know which gene causes the disease and what protein it is that the gene is telling our cells to stop making.  So, a cure is possible sometime in the future.

The guy writing this FAQ does, but opinions vary. Some pioneers find it degrading or sappy.