Official #WDAD2023 documentary

On September 7, the World Duchenne Organization launched a WDAD documentary that portrays the lives of people living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy across the globe and how they are each breaking barriers in their personal lives. Using storytelling techniques, the organization aims to provide insight into the barriers someone living with a rare disease may face, and provide encouraging and inspiring ways to overcome these challenges. The video is directed by Nicoletta Madia and produced by Arimvideo.

We urge everyone to share the documentary with the wider community. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for people living with dystrophinopathies.

Theme: Breaking Barriers

The World Duchenne Awareness Day 2023 theme is ‘Duchenne: Breaking Barriers’. World Duchenne Awareness Day (WDAD) is an annual event held on September 7. With this, WDAD supports creating a society that provides equal opportunities for all. This year we organize the 10th edition.

Duchenne: Breaking Barriers

People living with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD) face physical, healthcare and social barriers. This severely limits their ability to participate fully in community life and activities. That’s why on September 7th we call on you to take on responsibility and help break down barriers for people living with DMD/BMD. Only together as a society can we create an inclusive society and build a better future.

Some examples of topics aimed at breaking down barriers in DMD include:

  1. Access to care: Ensuring that individuals with DMD/BMD have access to comprehensive and affordable medical care to manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
  2. Accessibility: Ensuring that public spaces, such as schools, workplaces, and community centers, are accessible for people with DMD/BMD.
  3. Advocacy: Raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with DMD/BMD and advocating for policies and programs that promote social inclusion and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.
  4. Community engagement: Encouraging individuals with DMD/BMD to participate in community activities and providing resources and support to help them do so.
  5. Employment opportunities: Creating job opportunities for people with DMD/BMD and providing support for them to find and maintain employment.
  6. Inclusive education: Providing opportunities for people with DMD/BMD to attend mainstream schools and participate fully in the educational experience.

For inquiries, please contact Suzie-Ann Bakker, communications coordinator at the World Duchenne Organization.