The 2025 Defeat Duchenne Canada Family Forum, hosted in partnership with The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, has officially wrapped up an unforgettable weekend of connection, learning, and hope.
Held both in person at Vantage Venues in Toronto, Ontario and online across Canada, this year’s Family Forum brought together 286 participants from coast to coast: 166 family members and individuals living with Duchenne, 29 youth and teens, and 91 clinicians, researchers, and industry partners. All of us were united by one shared goal: a future free from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
“A milestone year for our community”
“This year’s Family Forum marked an incredible milestone – 30 years since our founder, John Davidson, began this journey of hope with his son Jesse. Three decades later, we continue to grow stronger together. From celebrating the the first approved treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy in Canada to hosting the first-ever youth and teen kids zone, this year’s event reflected the heart of who we are – a community defined by courage, collaboration, and compassion.” – Nicola Worsfold, Executive Director
2025 Highlights
Keynote Address:
“Advocacy from the Heart: Telling Your Story with Impact” Presented by Satellos Bioscience
International speaker and author Rachel Callander joined us from Australia, sharing a powerful message about the importance of empathy, language, and storytelling in advocacy and care. Watch her powerful presentation here:
Research & Industry Exhibition
New This Year
Families connected directly with scientists and industry leaders during our new Research and Industry Exhibition made possible by Satellos Bioscience, learning firsthand about current clinical trials, gene therapies, and emerging treatments shaping the future of Duchenne care.
Youth and Teen Programming
New This Year
For the first time, children and youth enjoyed dedicated recreational programming led by therapeutic recreation specialists from Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, ensuring that every family member had the chance to learn, play, and connect in their own way. See pictures below from the activities that took place throughout the weekend.
Feedback
Our goal is to create educational events and resources that benefit the Canadian Duchenne community, but we need your input! If you haven’t done so already, please take five minutes to share your feedback through our online survey.
Recordings
Missed a session or want to re-watch your favourites? Full recordings are available on our website and YouTube channel.
Photos
Relive the highlights and heartwarming moments from this inspiring weekend:
Sponsors
Each year, the Family Forum is made possible by our incredible sponsors. Get to know them below.
