Case Studies

Oliver and Jordan

Oliver is 11, his brother Jordan is 14. Both brothers suffer from Myotonic Dystrophy.

Myotonic Dystrophy is a hereditary degenerative muscle wasting disease, and the boys will get steadily worse as they reach the end of their teens.

The boys mother, Ann, was also diagnosed with the disease following Oliver’s birth. The nature of the disease can mean that female sufferers may find that they are less severely affected than male sufferers, especially when it is passed from mother to son, although they still have significant difficulties.

Because their condition will worsen, Ann is keen that she does everything possible now to build up their muscles in the hope that this will slow their decline.

The Foundation has provided a specialist tricycle for each of the boys, which will not only play a part in muscle development but also give them enjoyment and allow them to interact socially with other children.

Jordan is now able to go on enjoyable bike rides with his friends.

“The boys get a lot of pleasure from the trikes and, as a by-product the use ameliorates the wasting of the muscles. Its wonderful to see them enjoying themselves doing something as ordinary as riding a bike.”
Ann Law, Oliver and Jordan’s mother