Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing “LGMD2A/R1 Stories” so you can learn more about the C3 Community as we raise money together to drive scientific research toward a cure for this muscle-wasting disease. Today, meet Bec:
Hey all, I’m Bec. My symptoms began after I had my daughter 20 years ago. Not long after, I realised I couldn’t lift myself from the floor, and things slowly got harder, stairs, hills, even simple movements. I was a new mum trying to understand my body while being told it was “in my head.” One neurologist even pushed me to climb stairs, and when I couldn’t, it sent me into a really dark place. Deep down, I knew something was truly wrong.
Eventually, I found a neurologist who listened. He suspected muscular dystrophy, and a muscle biopsy confirmed LGMDR1. At first, I spiralled. Then I shifted. I couldn’t control the diagnosis, but I could control my response. I learned my hips and shoulders would be most affected, so I focused on strengthening them. Gentle, consistent training and a healthy lifestyle helped me slow things down.
Now I’m a LGMD fitness creator on Instagram. I train smart, push within my limits, and show what’s possible. When I was diagnosed, I set a goal to still be walking by 40. I’m 39 now. Still on my feet. Stairs and hills aren’t my friends, but with my walking stick, I’m still moving forward. I would love to find a cure because we all deserve to rise up again 💚