The Surprising Link between a Rare Disease and Ashton Kutcher’s Advocacy

The Surprising Link between a Rare Disease and Ashton Kutcher’s Advocacy

There are many rare diseases that people suffer from, but there is one that has caught the attention of Ashton Kutcher, Hollywood actor and entrepreneur. This disease is called Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a genetic disorder that affects around 1 in every 3,500 boys born worldwide. It is a rare and life-threatening conditions that causes muscles to deteriorate progressively, causing weakness and eventually leading to paralysis.

Ashton Kutcher is not someone you would necessarily associate with rare diseases, but he has recently become one of the most vocal advocates for children with DMD. The reason for this is personal; one of his good friends, Brian Wallach, was diagnosed with the condition in 2018 and has been fighting it ever since. Although there is currently no cure for DMD, Ashton Kutcher is determined to help find a solution and raise awareness for this disease.

What is Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

DMD is a genetic disease, predominantly affecting boys, which causes deterioration of muscle tissue in the body. Children with DMD are typically diagnosed before the age of five, and symptoms often include clumsiness, waddling gait, and difficulty running or getting up from the floor. As DMD progresses, muscle weakness increases, making it difficult for children to walk or climb stairs without assistance, and they may lose the ability to walk entirely by their early teenage years.

The Advocacy Efforts of Ashton Kutcher

Ashton Kutcher’s advocacy for DMD began with a simple tweet asking for help in finding a cure for his friend Brian Wallach. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to raise awareness for the disease and has even testified in front of Congress to urge them to provide more funding for research into treatments and cures. In addition, he has founded two organizations that work to support children with DMD and their families.

One such organization is called the Thorn Foundation, which uses technology to combat child sex trafficking. Kutcher’s other organization is called the A-Grade Foundation, which aims to support people with DMD and other disabilities. These organizations have raised millions of dollars to fund research, develop treatments, and support children and families impacted by DMD.

Conclusion

Ashton Kutcher’s advocacy efforts have helped raise awareness of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and provide hope for children and families fighting the disease. His personal connection to the disease has fueled his efforts, and his dedication to finding a cure has inspired others to join the fight. By working together, we can raise awareness and provide the support needed to find a cure for DMD.