In the near future, I will introduce a resolution to designate September 7, 2026, as “Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania.  
 
World Duchenne Awareness Day is observed globally on September 7 to raise awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a rare progressive disorder caused by a mutation in the gene producing dystrophin, a protein essential for muscle protection. This affects 1 out of every 5,000 children, approximately 15,000 children in the United States. There are 1.7 million PA residents who may have a similar mutation.
 
I recently met with a family who are lifelong residents of Lancaster County and have a young boy named Decker Murphy who was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in January 2024. Decker will celebrate his ninth birthday on August 30, 2026.
 
Through “Decker’s Blueprint,” a non-profit organization that was created to honor Decker and his passion for building and designing new homes just like his father, the Murphy family has done much to advocate for early diagnosis and long-term treatment or cure to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Decker embodies the spirit of a fighter, never giving up and always pushing forward.
 
This resolution would honor courageous children who have been diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and highlight the incredible work of advocates like Decker and his family, volunteers, health care professionals and researchers who are working to slow progression of the disease and find a cure.  
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this important resolution as we bring awareness about this rare progressive disorder.