Join me as I share My Becker Muscular Dystrophy Story!

Hi, I’m Brad Miller, a Canadian author, blogger, and advocate living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD). Diagnosed at age 10, I launched My Becker’s Story in 2010 to share my journey and raise awareness about BMD. So please join me on my journey through my childhood into my mid-forties living with Becker Muscular as I hold nothing back by sharing every victory and defeat while providing a few tips along the way!

My New Book “Fighting Towards Victory”

In 2023, I published Fighting Towards Victory: Living a Life Where Perseverance Is Key, where I share my experiences growing up with a rare disease. By sharing personal stories and real-life experiences, I strive to show others they’re not alone in their journey. This book goes beyond my blog, offering insight, storytelling, practical advice, and motivation for anyone facing the challenges life brings.

This book is especially valuable for:

▪︎ People with Becker Muscular Dystrophy

▪︎ Parents of children with MD

▪︎ Anyone living with a chronic illness

What Readers Are Saying

• “What an honest and inspiring story through many challenges and finding positivity through it all.”

• “Hi Brad. I was recently diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy. I read your book and wanted to let you know that it made me feel a lot better about my diagnosis.”

Get Your Copy of Fighting Towards Victory - Order now from Canada, the USA, the UK, and more: linktr.ee/fightingtowardsvictory

Connect with My Beckers Story

Find me on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook @mybeckersstory

Dodging the Smackdown: When Becker Muscular Dystrophy Reminds Me Who’s Boss

The other day, I was enjoying a walk, feeling great, then this evening - a fall in the parking lot outside our building. Yet another 'successful' fall with no real injuries, just what seems like a lightly sprained index finger. Oddly for me that’s a win! This was just Becker Muscular Dystrophy saying - hello, remember me? Lesson learned today be extra cautions especially on the good days!

Now, I’m well aware that a fall could end badly - and I can imagine a few people asking 'Why didn’t you use your mobility scooter?' Well, here’s the thing - it’s not that simple especially if I am alone. As getting out of my apartment with the scooter is like going through an obstacle course.

There's three manual doors between me and freedom and just to get my scooter outside I need my trusty wooden board, perfectly crafted for a smooth ride over an inconvenient lip at the front entrance. Let’s just say, the concept of accessibility around here is about as common as it was in medieval times. You get the picture, right? Like always I find ways to adapt.

Today, I’m just grateful I walked away with only a few bumps and bruises - like Becker Muscular Dystrophy decided to give me a light slap instead of a full-on smackdown!

Building on the smackdown reference, it got me thinking - what would my wrestling name be? Probably something like "Brad 'The Perseverer' Miller." It’s got a nice ring to it, right? Plus, it pairs perfectly with the title of my book. I just wish I could "Layith the smackdown" on Muscular Dystrophy!

Yes, I grew up watching The Rock (Dwayne Johnson), the man behind that iconic catchphrase. Definitely some great memories!

Getting to the Heart of Becker Muscular Dystrophy

Living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy often involves anticipation of the condition worsening. Many individuals experience concern about heart-related issues, which, although manageable, remain a significant concern for many. This underscores the importance of regular heart check-ups. It is essential to acknowledge that heart-related complications are a potential aspect of Becker Muscular Dystrophy, and awareness of these facts is crucial.

Research & Hope for the Future

Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) can impact individuals in various ways. While some may be able to walk or use mobility aids in certain situations, others may have lost the ability to walk. Currently, a study by Edgewise Therapeutics is underway with the hope of developing a treatment to slow the progression of BMD. This significant study has the potential to lead to future treatments for other forms of Muscular Dystrophy. If they discover a method to protect our hearts, it could benefit the entire Muscular Dystrophy community.

While there is a serious aspect to living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD), we can remain hopeful that advancements in research will benefit not only future generations but also those currently living with Becker. Although there are certainly challenges associated with living with a progressive disability, it is important to focus on the potential positive outcomes from ongoing studies. Looking to the future with hope for good results from current research is essential.

Throughout my life with Becker Muscular Dystrophy, I have found a positive aspect in meeting others who are living with the condition. Our community is often very supportive, willing to help each other through both the good and bad times. There have been many occasions where I have received valuable advice from fellow individuals with BMD, which has helped me navigate difficult periods.

One challenge we encounter is dealing with family or friends who may not fully understand the issues we face, particularly when we are at a less visible stage of living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD). They may make insensitive remarks or show a lack of understanding regarding why we can no longer visit their homes due to obstacles like stairs or other barriers. Living with any disability can be frustrating, as it often involves dealing with challenges that those without disabilities do not experience. This can be quite stressful, which is concerning, especially given the potential heart-related issues associated with BMD.

This post emphasizes the importance of supporting our community and helping others understand the lives we lead. It also highlights the need for doctors and other healthcare providers to be well-informed about Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD). Increased awareness and knowledge will contribute to improved care and better outcomes for everyone living with BMD. Ultimately, like everyone else, we deserve the best possible care and greater understanding from those we share our lives with.

To learn more about Edgewise Therapeutics and their efforts please visit https://edgewisetx.com/ 

To learn more about life with Becker Muscular Dystrophy consider getting a copy of my book "Fighting Towards Victory" Available on Amazon by visiting https://linktr.ee/fightingtowardsvictory

The importance of cherishing the good things in life!

Eventually, you realize that life isn't meant to be perfect, and that's okay! It's our experiences, both positive and negative, that shape our lives. While it's easy to focus on what has gone wrong, it's essential to remember the good things too. Even when we feel overwhelmed, focusing on the positives, no matter how small, can bring us joy and help us navigate life's challenges.

In recent years, I've learned that having something to look forward to is crucial. It could be an upcoming concert, a sporting event, or a get-together with friends. Many of us eagerly anticipate certain holidays, with Christmas being my favorite. Having the right outlook on life truly makes a difference.

Living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy, it's easy to get caught up in the risks of aging with this rare disease. However, no matter what happens, we must try our best to keep going and be thankful for the good things in our lives. This includes our friends, family, beloved pets, and the ability to connect with others in our community. For some, a beautiful day is enough to lift their spirits, while others find joy in a rainy day.

Yes, there will be times when we feel the need to accomplish more. Many of us wish we were better off physically and financially. Some wish their relationships were better, often focusing on a person's faults instead of appreciating all the good they bring into our lives. This post is a reminder to everyone, including myself, to focus on the positives. Life was never meant to be perfect, and most people's journeys are filled with ups and downs that we all manage to get through.

Sometimes, we believe happiness comes from material things, like owning an expensive vehicle or home, only to learn that these things don't always bring joy. What truly helps most of us is being part of a community, especially when dealing with a disability or any of life's challenges. It's so helpful to have someone to talk to who understands and can provide advice.

At times, we might expect to be happier at this point in life, but being content with what we already have is what's important. Sure, our lives could be better, but that doesn't mean we don't have dreams we hope to achieve, even when it seems more difficult. I get through life's challenges with hope, believing that miracles can still happen. Maybe one day, we'll be able to afford a home, or life will get better, and perhaps a cure for Muscular Dystrophy will be found.

Life is all about what you focus on. Sometimes, we need to do our best to look at the positives while dealing with the negatives. It's no lie when they say life is like a roller-coaster ride, with many ups and downs but also moments of pure excitement and joy!