#United States #New York #PPMD #Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy #NYC Marathon

Record-Breaking Fundraising at the 2026 NYC Marathon

This past weekend marked a historic moment for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) as their team celebrated a remarkable fundraising achievement during the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon. Gathering supporters and athletes dedicated to the cause, PPMD raised an astounding $300,000, making it their most successful fundraising event ever for the Race to End Duchenne program.

Uniting for a Cause

The fundraising effort at the marathon underscores an extraordinary commitment from the runners, donors, volunteers, and supporters engaged in the mission to promote awareness and support for those affected by Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. Each mile run symbolized collective determination and an opportunity to shine a light on the challenges faced by individuals living with these genetic disorders.

Among the crowd were remarkable participants like Nicholas Byrnes and Jack Napoli, the latter of whom is a seasoned member of the Race to End Duchenne team. Napoli completed the marathon with an impressive finish, ranking within the top 1% of both his age group (20-24) and overall finishers. His performance, alongside the rest of the team, is a testament to their dedication and passion for the cause.

A Legacy of Support and Achievement

Nicole Herring, Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at PPMD, shared her immense pride in the team's accomplishment, stating, "Reaching a new fundraising record for our NYC Marathon program is an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to the generosity and commitment of this community." Herring emphasized that the funding raised would significantly aid PPMD in enhancing research efforts, improving patient care, and advocating more effectively for the Duchenne and Becker community.

Since its inception in 2005, PPMD's Race to End Duchenne has transformed from a modest team of 86 runners raising over $86,000 to a global movement. This inspiring initiative now unites hundreds of participants and families annually through various endurance events, including marathons, half-marathons, and fun runs. Over the past two decades, the program has raised upwards of $19 million, influencing research advancements and accelerating access to crucial therapies for those affected by Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy.

The Fight against Duchenne Continues

As PPMD looks ahead, the record set during the 2026 NYC Marathon adds yet another chapter to their ongoing mission. They express sincere gratitude toward the NYC Marathon team, donors, and the cheering fans who fueled their efforts.

"We will continue to demand optimal care standards and ensure that every family has access to expert healthcare providers, innovative treatments, and a supportive community. Our advocacy has secured vital funding and FDA approvals for treatments, and we remain steadfast in our fight to end Duchenne for every individual affected by this disease," said a representative from PPMD.

In conclusion, the success of this year's marathon not only highlights the power of community but also reinforces the continued hope for progress in research and treatment for Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. PPMD encourages everyone to join them in their efforts by visiting EndDuchenne.org and following their journey on social media.

Join the Movement

Stay connected with PPMD's initiatives by following them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, and be part of this crucial movement dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by Duchenne.