Michel LeBoeuf and his family know all too well the struggles that living with Myotonic muscular dystrophy can present. However, this upbeat, active family is not letting their plight get them down.
Michel, and two of his three children have been diagnosed with Myotonic muscular dystrophy since 2012.
"After the initial shock we were committed to do everything we could to help those affected by neuromuscular disorders," said Michel.
"Anything that can raise funds for research and support, as well as greater awareness can do nothing but help. My biggest hope is that research will find treatment in time for myself and a cure in time for my children," concluded Michel.
They are proof that muscular dystrophy will not slow them down. Daughter Alexandra competes on a competitive dance team, dancing two to three hours every night. Julie LeBoeuf, Alexandra's mother, considers the dancing to be therapeutic.
Nicholas, their son, has competed at the provincial level in sport. Daughter Gabrielle (who is without muscular dystrophy) is considered to be the glue that holds the family together.
Julie also watched with pride as her husband trained for, and completed a full marathon recently.
The LeBoeuf family served as ambassadors for the Walk for Muscular Dystrophy, which started at Lee Park, Saturday, June 18.
Shane and Melissa White's son, Jacob, a two-year-old diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age six months, beamed with pride as he rode his mechanized green truck around the course.
Click here for more BayToday.ca coverage of the event, and for more on muscular dystrophy.
Baytoday.ca spoke with Jacob's Aunt Crystal and Uncle Jason, and they relayed that his short life has been a struggle so far. Jacob's energy level is lower than a typical child of his age. He has trouble navigating stairs. The supportive family is hopeful that he will be able to attend school, but even that is uncertain. There is no treatment, and life expectancy for those suffering from the Duchenne version can be short.
It is evident that Jacob will always have the support of his family and friends. Muscular Dystrophy Canada receives almost no government funding and relies on community events and the generosity of its donors. Proceeds from the event support various programs including funding equipment, assistive living devices, support services and fund research to one day find a cure.
Click here to donate.
On this beautiful day along the shores of Lake Nipissing, as long as he was at the controls of his little truck,one smiling boy did not have a care in the world.
