All information was received from...

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"Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy - Genetics Home Reference." Genetics Home Reference - Your Guide to Understanding Genetic Conditions. Web. 14 Mar. 2011. <http://www.ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/duchenne-and-becker-muscular-dystrophy>.

"Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - NY Times Health Information." Health News - The New York Times. Web. 14 Mar. 2011. <http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/duchenne-muscular-dystrophy/overview.html>.

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How possible is it that a cure will be found?

Cures are possible. Scientists have found a drug that cures Duchenne Muscular Dystorphy in mice. This shows hope that it can also happen to people. The drug has been studied to be safe and effective. Lee Sweeny, chairman of physiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, says, "In addition to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy — a prevalent, rapidly worsening form of the disorder — the drug has the potential to cure a host of genetic diseases caused by the same mutation."

What are some organizations that can help a family cope with a child's disorder?

Some orginizations for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy mainly include: DMD Fund (http://www.dmdfund.org/), The Muscular Dystrophy Association (http://www.disaboom.com/organizations/4298), and the Muscular Dystropy Campaign (http://www.disaboom.com/organizations/4400).

What limitations does the person have?

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy prevents most physical activity. They won't be able to walk, play sports, or basically do anything involving their body. People diagnosed with it must use a wheelchair to get around in life.

What is everyday life like? What is the quality of life?

It's hard having to deal with disease as there is no cure for it. Johnathan, a young boy suffering with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, takes Deflazacort, a steroid based medication to help his weak muscle strength. He also takes many pills such as vitamin D and calcium to keep his bones strong. His family must have a house that supports his problem, so they put elevators in the house. They must make sure the school he goes to can support his disease. He gets around by using his wheelchair.

How can the disease be treated?

Sadly, there is no cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Things that may help, though, is activity. Inactivity can worsen the disease. It's also been proven that the supplement creatine may help with strengthening the muscles.

What is the life expectancy of someone with the disease?

Because the effects are beginning before the age of 6, most people with the disease die in their late teens or early adulthood. Symptoms can already be seen around the first years of their life. Braces are needed to help walk around the age of 10 and by the age of 12, they're life's on a wheelchair.