“Dear Mom” Giving Thanks for Mom This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a reminder to love our moms a little extra and be thankful for all that they do for us. For boys with Duchenne, it’s a reminder of how their mothers impact their lives in the largest ways and with the smallest gestures.

The boys say it best. Here’s some of their stories:

Andrew, a 19–year-old from Rochester, NY, lives with his grandmother whom he affectionately calls Nana. According to Andrew, she did everything in her power to ensure that Andrew grew up as similarly to the other children as possible.

“You showed everyone over and over how you were my strongest champion and advocate. No matter what change this disease has brought into my life, you have been there with me every step of the way.” -Andrew

21- year-old BJ, from Tyler, TX, and his mom have faced every decision, change, medication, treatment and more together. BJ feels that his mother has equipped him with a strong sense of self that has helped him as he has grown into adulthood.

“Thank you for teaching me it is not cowardly to have fear, and that bravery is acknowledging the fear while still moving forward.” -BJ

For Grant, 7–year-old from Bismarck ND, it’s the little things from his mother that he appreciates most. He’s thankful for the family game nights and movie nights that she coordinates. He cherishes their family trips, specifically their trip to Boston where he met baseball great David Ortiz.

“My favorite thing you do is lie next to me at night and read with me. I thank you for all you do by giving my love back to you. Thanks for helping me and for loving me every day.” -Grant

From Montgomery, IL, 14-year-old Nicolas cherishes his mother for all that she does to help him through his journey with Duchenne. Nicolas looks forward to milestones in life, like potentially driving a car, going to college, and living on his own. He realizes the difficulties that come with Duchenne but will not give up hope for a cure. He’s thankful for his mother who helps him with the things he cannot do for himself any longer.

“You do a lot to help me out. You are like my arms and my legs. You are my heart and my soul. You mean a lot to me and I want to thank you for being my mom and always make me happy.” –Nicolas

No words are ever enough, but thank you for being you. Happy Mother’s Day!