September is Duchenne Awareness Month in Canada, and September 7, 2025, marks the 12th annual World Duchenne Awareness Day. This year’s theme, “Family: The Heart of Care,” highlights the vital role families play in the lives of those affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
DMD is the most common fatal genetic disease diagnosed in early childhood, causing progressive muscle weakness, impacting daily life, and shortening life expectancy. During Duchenne Awareness Month, Defeat Duchenne Canada is shining a light on the impact this muscle-wasting condition has on the entire family. Parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and close friends all become part of the care network, providing strength, love, and support.
“Duchenne muscular dystrophy impacts far more than the individual diagnosed. It affects the lives of everyone who loves and cares about someone living with the disease. This September, we’re calling on Canadians to recognize the courage of these families and to help us widen our reach across the country. We want to make sure that no family is facing Duchenne alone.”
Brian Atkinson, Board Chair, Defeat Duchenne Canada
Defeat Duchenne Canada invites Canadians to participate in four ways:
- Shine a Light: On World Duchenne Awareness Day, September 7, landmarks across the country will illuminate in red as a symbolic gesture of support for individuals living with DMD. From Science World in British Columbia to Signal Hill in Newfoundland and Labrador, communities will light up in solidarity. Decorate your home red or visit a participating monument.
- Share Your Story: This year’s campaign pays tribute to the extended family networks who stand beside those living with DMD and their caregivers. Family: The Heart of Care acknowledges those siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends who make a difference every day. Share your story and join a national movement to honour the heart of care.
- Spread Awareness: Download shareable images and captions from the Defeat Duchenne Canada website to post online. By raising awareness, families and supporters can help connect newly diagnosed individuals with information about DMD care and resources, access to the latest research, and join the national network of support.
- Donate Today: Support the cause and help us build a world without Duchenne.
Connecting with Defeat Duchenne Canada opens doors to advocacy, support, and community for families. This September, every story shared and every light shining red will move us closer to a world without Duchenne.
A special thank you to Platinum Sponsor, KYE Pharmaceuticals, for their leadership and commitment to advancing awareness and care for families across Canada.