Donovan Carlson, Age 16
Woodbury, MN

Home and Family

Donovan lives with his mom Jenny, brother, Levi and service dog Buffy.

Diagnosis

Donovan was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at age 5. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. DMD is caused by an absence of dystrophin, a protein that helps keep muscle cells intact. Symptom onset is in early childhood, usually between ages 3 and 5. The disease primarily affects boys, but in rare cases it can affect girls.

School

Donovan is a sophomore in high school. German is one of his favorite subjects.

Interests

Donovan, like most teenagers, loves video games and anything to do with Apple computers. He is currently a Life Scout and in the beginning stages of starting his Eagle Project. He enjoys hanging out with his friends and is on the robotics team at school.

MDA Activities

Donovan has attended MDA Summer Camp since he was 6 years old. He participated as a 2007 Local Goodwill Ambassador. Other MDA activities include the MDA Muscle Walk, Shambassador visits and an honoree fire fighter for Edina Fire Department.