'Millie Day' in Bradford supports Muscular Dystrophy Canada (7 photos)

Each year, Muscular Dystrophy Canada focuses the efforts of tens of thousands of donors and hundreds of volunteers across dozens of events to help those living with the daily challenges of neuromuscular disorders. 

On Dec. 14, at the Battle of the Gwillimburies, the Bradford West Gwillimbury Bulldogs and the East Gwillimbury Eagles joined the ranks of those willing to help.

In honor of Millie Arjoon, a seven-year-old Bradford girl who has muscular dystrophy, the annual game between the neighbouring towns would be dubbed “Millie Day” and funds raised from the event would go directly to Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

With a game that ended in a 2-2 tie, Muscular Dystrophy Canada was the winner of the day.

“We were approached to do something around Millie for the Battle of the Gwillimburies hockey game and we said ‘Sure’, but we asked that the funds raised went to Muscular Dystrophy Canada,” said Millie’s Mother, Trina Arjoon.

“When this came around, we have had so much help from the community, we just didn’t want to take any more funds. We’re good. We’re lucky. We’re blessed. We’re happy. Let’s give this back, so that’s why we’re having the funds go to Muscular Dystrophy Canada,” said Arjoon.

“We support them and they’re a great source of support to us,” she said. 

“They help fund equipment costs and other things that aren’t covered. They also fund research into Muscular Dystrophy to help find cures or treatments. They’re an organization that’s near and dear to us.” 

There are over 160 different types of Muscular Dystrophy, and over 300 neuro-muscular disorders that find support from Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

“Even if two people have the same, exact neuro-muscular disorder, they’re having different experiences,” said Meagan Burnside-Holmes, a Campaign Coordinator with Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

“Everybody’s illness progresses at a different rate and in different ways, so we really work to tailor our support for each unique situation. We try to provide whatever they need to live their best life,” she continued.

Muscular Dystrophy Canada focuses on three areas: research, support and advocacy.

Research both within Canada and internationally, to accelerate the development of treatments for those living with neuromuscular disorders. 

Support programs and services designed for clients, helping them with things like equipment, networking, retreats and education about their disorder.

Advocacy is handled at the government level, provincially, federally and locally. 

Muscular Dystrophy Canada works to amplify voices to push for increased access to trials and treatments as well as stronger accessibility policies in Canada. 

To add your voice to their cause, reach out to Muscular Dystrophy Canada through their website here.