Granting Process

Defeat Duchenne Canada invites research proposals focused on treating and improving the lives of individuals living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Successful proposals are expected to be of high scientific merit, demonstrate a clear, probable and timely path toward clinical implementation.

Priority will be given to projects that are cost effective and have the most significant impact on boys and young men living with Duchenne. Research groups funded by Defeat Duchenne Canada are highly encouraged to be open to collaboration with other investigators and to exploring additional partnerships with other foundations.

Click here to see the full list of funding criteria and conditions for 2023.

All applications will be reviewed by the organization’s funding advisory committees. Our Research Funding Advisory Committee (RFAC) comprised of researchers, clinicians, and scientists, and our Duchenne Family Advisory Committee (DFAC), including family members and individuals living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Defeat Duchenne Canada’s Board of Directors make the final funding decision based on the recommendations presented by both of these committees.

1. Dr. Lisa Hoffman, RFAC Chair – Associate Scientist at the Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario
2. Dr. Jeff Chamberlain – Professor in the Departments of Neurology, Medicine and Biochemistry at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
3. Dr. Hernan Gonorazky – Pediatric Neuromuscular Specialist and Scientist at the Hospital of Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario
4. Dr. Hanns Lochmüller – Neuromuscular Specialist and Senior Scientist at the University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario
5. Dr. Jean Mah – Pediatric Neuromuscular Specialist and Senior Scientist at Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, Alberta
6. Dr. Toshifumi Yokota – Professor in the Department of Medical Genetics at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta

1. Lorrie Power (NS) – Duchenne Family Advisory Committee Chair and Mother
2. Kerri Denysiuk (SK) – Mother
3. Marie-Catherine Duberger (QC) – Mother and President at La Force DMD
4. Rebekah Kember (ON) – Sister
5. Kasha Mitton (BC) – Mother
6. Darlene Morden (ON) – Mother
7. Eric Morden (ON) – Young Adult with Duchenne
8. Frank Provenzano (ON) – Father
9. Rachael Prendergast (ON) – Mother

We are thankful for these exceptional volunteers who dedicate their time to this vital process. Their thought leadership enables us to decide where our donors’ generous gifts will make the most significant impact on the lives of those living with Duchenne.