​About Duchenne and Jett Foundation

Duchenne is the #1 most common fatal genetic disorder diagnosed in childhood. It is a very progressive muscle wasting disease primarily affecting boys. Most boys are wheelchair dependent by age 12 and rapidly lose all muscle function. The respiratory system is affected and the heart, a muscle too, eventually fails. Most boys with Duchenne do not live beyond their 20's. There is no cure. It affects 1 in 3500 boys; about 20,000 boys in the US alone are effected. On a positive note, this is the most exciting time ever for the Duchenne community as we have recently had 2 treatment drugs approved for use in about  18% of Duchenne patients. And many more promising treatments are currently in clinical trials. 

Calvin’s parents, Cindy and Curt Quitzau, have found tremendous support by working with the Jett Foundation and Christine McSherry who, after her son Jett was diagnosed, started the foundation dedicated to fighting this devastating disease. By visiting JettFoundation.org, you will learn more about their current focus and their programs serving the otherwise unmet needs in the Duchenne community. Educational Family Roundtables, Camp Promise, and  Jett Giving Fund are among the programs they have created to directly support those living with this progressive and fatal disease. Please be sure to visit  Jett Foundation for the specifics and how to get involved.