In this interview, we meet Brad Miller (47), a Canadian blogger living with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD). Brad shares his remarkable journey of adapting to challenges posed by the rare disease, and pursuing his passions with confidence and determination. He talks about his childhood experiences to creating his blog, “My Beckers Story,” and founding “Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.” Brad’s story is an inspiring testament to breaking barriers and raising awareness for BMD.
About Brad Miller
“My name is Brad and I’m a Canadian blogger living in Ontario with Becker muscular dystrophy. As a child I was having trouble keeping up with the other kids my age. This led to a visit to a family doctor who thankfully had some knowledge about muscular dystrophy. At the time, my enlarged calf muscles grabbed his attention. So, at the age of 10 I was sent off for some testing which also included me having a muscle biopsy. After that my parents were given the news that I have Becker muscular dystrophy.”
Becker muscular dystrophy and daily life
“As a child with Becker muscular dystrophy, I could still enjoy riding my bike and playing with friends, but certain activities like jumping, climbing trees, or participating in running sports were challenging for me. However, I didn’t let these limitations bother me and learned to adapt at a young age, thoroughly enjoying my childhood. The real challenges surfaced in my late teens, experiencing frequent falls and needing several days to recover after pushing myself too far physically, especially during trips to amusement parks. Nowadays, I do my best to adapt to the challenges that come my way, as walking becomes more difficult. I’ve started using a mobility scooter for longer distances and a cane when required. Adapting to my changing needs is an ongoing part of my life with Becker muscular dystrophy.
Following dreams with Becker MD
Having this condition never stopped me from following my dreams. Throughout my life, I’ve pursued my passions, including writing and performing my songs. I’m proud to have published two articles online, featuring my list of the Top 10 vehicles for people with disabilities and reviewing a newly accessible vehicle. Unfortunately, a few years ago, I suffered a work-related injury, leading me to stop working. However, this didn’t deter me; instead, it inspired me to create the My Beckers Story blog, where I share my experiences of living with Becker muscular dystrophy. A few years later, I founded Laps for muscular dystrophy, where racing teams contribute to raising awareness and funds for muscular dystrophy charities. My journey has been about adapting and persisting, pursuing my passions and advocating for others in similar situations.”
My goal for WDAD
“For WDAD in 2023, it is my passion for raising awareness and understanding of the issues we face. As I really believe when people better understand our daily lives it can result in more support of our community. With the end result being more support of muscular dystrophy charities and of the important research & studies currently taking place. After all, the hope of many is seeing new treatments and the possibility of one day finding a cure.”
About the Breaking Barriers Theme
“To me, this year’s WDAD theme represents the determination of our community to support each other by working together to advance the cause of raising much-needed awareness and funds to help improve the lives of current and future generations. I think raising awareness is a great way of breaking barriers by making more people aware of the unique challenges we face. This resulting in more support and understanding.”
Why I’m joining as Becker Ambassador
The main reason I have decided to share my story is to show others they are not alone. To also show people that perseverance in life is so important. I’ve certainly faced many challenges in life. Some related to living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy others just the regular challenges of life. In my case I survived being bullied as a child as unfortunately the other children would make fun of the way I walk, call me names and once even spit on me. It was easy but I survived and still no child living with any form of Muscular Dystrophy should have to deal with being bullied. So, another hope of mine in raising awareness of BMD is that it makes more children aware of those living with MD so that future generations don’t have to deal with bullying. Another hope of mine is that reading my story helps parents better understand what it is like to live with BMD to hopefully show people we can live our lives to the fullest, have careers, start families and enjoy life.
Since the start of sharing my story, I’ve shared it openly and honestly by not shying away from addressing any issue affecting those with disabilities. Simply because I believe we can learn a lot from each other’s stories. That is why I often encourage others to start sharing their stories as it certainly can make a huge difference in people’s lives knowing they are not alone in their experiences. In a way letting them know we are all in this together with the same hope of one day seeing a cure for Muscular Dystrophy.”
Key Message
“So, let’s keep sharing our stories and raising awareness. Supporting WDAD is key in encouraging everyone. Even those outside our community to join us in the fight against Muscular Dystrophy.”
We are inviting you to follow Brad with his Becker story through his website and social media channels:
- Website: mybeckersstory.blogspot.com
- Instagram: @mybeckersstory
- Twitter: @mybeckersstory
- Facebook: facebook.com/mybeckersstory
