The DMD Emergency Program is proud to announce the successful delivery of humanitarian aid to people living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in Ukraine. Duchenne Ukraine expressed its gratitude for the financial and material assistance received. It has made a significant impact on the lives of these families.
Since the Russia-Ukraine war started, the DMD Emergency Program has been providing financial support to patient organizations who are coordinating local support for families affected by the disease. In addition to financial support, material assistance is now delivered to families in Ukraine with people living with DMD.
Delivery of humanitarian aid
Various materials are delivered, including essential equipment such as Hoyer lifts, electric and mechanical wheelchairs, and shower chairs. In addition, the families received nutritional drinks, diapers, masks, power banks, flashlights, blankets, and many other necessary items. Duchenne Ukraine distributed the aid to 23 families. Part of it was given to Mio-life for independent distribution among its members.
Alina Yashchenko, head of Duchenne Ukraine, expresses her gratitude. “Duchenne Ukraine is grateful for the financial and material support received for Ukrainian people suffering from DMD. Many volunteers and drivers helped transport and distribute the humanitarian aid. The administration of the Kirovohrad Regional Hospital of the Kirovohrad Regional Council deserves recognition for providing temporary storage of the aid on their premises.”
Nicoletta Madia: “The World Duchenne Organization wants to share their heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the DMD Emergency Program. Through the help of many sponsors and donors, we were able to provide the much-needed materials to the families in Ukraine. We are grateful for everyone’s contribution to helping these families.”
Earlier this year, the documentary ‘Help Has No Borders’ was launched. The aim of this documentary is to provide insight on the challenges experienced by Duchenne communities in case of an emergency. Here, Nicoletta Madia included the portrayal of stories from the Duchenne community in Ukraine. A timeline of the activities of the DMD Emergency Program in Ukraine are visible in the live feed.
About DMD Emergency Program
The DMD Emergency Program provides aid to families who have children with complex diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The program started in 2020 and aims to give both direct emergency aid and long-term support. The initiative is a collaboration between the Duchenne Data Foundation and the World Duchenne Organization. It provides support to the DMD/BMD community after natural disasters and wars. Examples are the Beirut Blast, the Ukrainian war, and the Turkey/Syria earthquake. The program receives support by several organizations, foundations, private donors, and pharmaceutical companies like Sarepta Therapeutics and PTC Therapeutics.
Photos used with permission of Duchenne Ukraine