You Can Steal My Mobility, But Not My Joy

At a young age, Little Billy was delayed in reaching physical developmental milestones. When he finally began to walk, he was plagued by frequent and injurious falls. Physical therapy initially appeared to alleviate his difficulties, until after three and a half years of therapy, he was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a progressive disease in calcium penetrates the membranes of muscular cells and leads to muscular degeneration. Initially, only skeletal muscles are affected. Overtime the muscles that control organs such as the heart and the brain will also be affected.

As a six-year-old with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, there are many things Little Billy cannot do. He cannot ride a bike, climb trees, or skip rope. He struggles to stand without falling and is unable to participate in sports with other children his age. Although the activities he is able to do are limited, he thoroughly enjoys those he can do as evidenced by his nearly constant smile. Some of his favorite activities are swimming at his community pool, watching movies, and playing video games (especially those with Star Wars Themes). He also enjoys going to church, school and Disneyland.

Despite his physical limitations, Little Billy’s verbal skills are exceptional. Since he began talking in complete sentences at the early age of one he has been able to share his cheerful disposition with those around him. His family, comprised of his parents and two sisters, is grateful for the joy that Little Billy is able to experience and share in his everyday life. They hope he is able to maintain his joyous outlook through the difficulties they know lie ahead for him.

Celebrating Billy’s sixth birthday with a special cake brought joy and smiles to the entire family. His cake was provided by Sugar Angel Suzanne Herbert with Suzanne’s Bakery in Temecula, California. Thank you Suzanne for bringing a big SMILE to Billy’s face! If you wish to support Little Billy’s care and the search for a cure for DMD, please visit https://www.youcaring.com/billyojeda-739831.