Richmond family walks to beat fatal muscular dystrophy

A Richmond family will be completing a 3.3 km walk on Sunday to raise funds for a common fatal form of muscular dystrophy.

Dustin Haraguchi, 5, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in February 2022.

“It was a diagnosis that none of us were prepared for or wanted to hear,” said Michelle May, Haraguchi’s aunt.

DMDis a genetic disorder primarily affecting young boys. It is a degenerative disease that causes muscles to weaken progressively and the functions of vital organs to deteriorate, leading to shorter lives.

May, who organized the walk on Sunday, said her nephew is “a light in this world” with an infectious smile and a sweet and caring personality. He will be starting kindergarten this September.

The purpose of the walk is to “reflect his light” by giving back to Defeat Duchenne Canada, which supports Haraguchi and other kids like him in Canada.

“DMD is an uphill battle that requires lots of support. We are talking together this Sunday for Mike, Erika, Taya, Dustin, and other families going through the same thing,” said May.

The family will be walking, running, or strolling 3.3 km starting from the playground at Manoah Steves elementary, down the Steveston dyke, and back to the playground.

So far, team Dusty’s Dynamo’s has raised $11,780. Donations will go toward finding treatments and a cure for the disease, educating families who live with the disease, and advocating for therapies for children and young men suffering from DMD.

To support the Haraguchis and to find out more, click here.