Pickleball Tournament for Duchenne-Affected Boy in North Carolina: In Raleigh, North Carolina, a local family is rallying to spotlight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a severe genetic disorder affecting their 8-year-old son. The Fosters are spearheading a pickleball tournament to aid their son, Nathan, and others battling the incurable condition.
A Devastating Diagnosis
Five years ago, Nathan Foster’s diagnosis turned the Fosters’ world upside down. “Your worst nightmare,” is how Misty Foster describes it. Brad and Misty were faced with the harsh reality of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive genetic disorder that deteriorates muscles over time. “You have a kid, and you expect that they’re going to be healthy,” Misty added. Despite the grief of losing the life they envisioned for Nathan, Misty remains hopeful due to ongoing advancements and emerging treatments.
Supporting Research and Raising Awareness
Nathan has participated in two clinical trials, benefiting from the advanced medical facilities in their area. The Fosters are dedicated to supporting research and increasing public awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. “There’s still people today – even part of our circle – that we mention Duchenne and they’re like, ‘What is that?’” Brad Foster noted. To address this, the family organized the “Dinking for Duchenne” pickleball tournament, scheduled for September 21 and 22 at Piney Wood Park in Durham. The event aims to fundraise for Cure Duchenne and cover Nathan’s medical expenses.
Building Community and Hope
The tournament’s primary objective is to foster awareness. “If we can share with the 150 or 200 people that play, and then they each go tell a friend that they played in this tournament and this is what Duchenne is, we’ve created more awareness for it,” Brad emphasized. The Fosters are deeply appreciative of the community’s support. “It means the world to us,” Brad said, highlighting the unwavering support from long-time friends and new acquaintances eager to help. The family’s ultimate goal is to inspire donations to Cure Duchenne, advancing research that could one day diminish the impact of this devastating condition. Misty reflects their current sentiment: “At this point, we’re more hopeful than we are sad.”
News in Brief: Pickleball Tournament for Duchenne-Affected Boy in North Carolina
A Raleigh family is hosting a pickleball tournament, “Dinking for Duchenne,” on September 21 and 22 at Piney Wood Park in Durham, to raise awareness and funds for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The event supports their 8-year-old son Nathan and aims to benefit Cure Duchenne while educating the public about the rare genetic disorder. The Fosters hope to advance research and encourage donations through the tournament, which has become a vital platform for spreading awareness and garnering community support.
