Lighting up for Duchenne Day

Newport Civic Centre’s clock tower was lit up in red on Wednesday 7 September to mark World Duchenne Awareness Day.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic and progressive condition, diagnosed in childhood, that causes all the muscles to gradually weaken.

There is no cure but Duchenne UK aims to end the disease and raises funds for groundbreaking research, accelerating treatments and support for families.

Newport’s Mayor Councillor Martyn Kellaway has chosen Elliot’s Endeavours as one of his charities for the year.

Elliot’s Endeavours to End Duchenne is a fundraising effort initiated and organised by the parents of a local boy who was diagnosed with the condition when he was just three.

Elliot’s family work tirelessly to raise funds to support Duchenne UK..

Councillor Jane Mudd, Leader of Newport City Council, said: “The Mayor has chosen a worthy organisation as one of the beneficiaries of his year in office and I’m pleased that we can show our support and hopefully help raise awareness.

“This is a cruel illness that has a terrible impact on children like Elliot, and their families. His parents’ devotion and commitment to helping others in their position is admirable and inspirational.

“Duchenne UK funds vital research that might one day lead to a cure being found for this heartbreaking illness but they are also making sure the best treatments are made available and providing support to families and that is so important.”

To find out more about Duchenne UK and Elliot’s Endeavours visit https://www.duchenneuk.org/elliots-endeavours/

The Mayor’s other charity this year is The Burnt Chef Project which aims to eradicate mental health stigma within the hospitality sector. Find out more about his charities at https://www.newport.gov.uk/en/Council-Democracy/Mayors-Office/Mayors-Office.aspx