Description for the slide.
Description for the slide.
Our Mission
To raise awareness and provide support for children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in Uganda.
Our Vision
To ensure no child faces DMD alone by improving diagnosis and advocating for better care.
Get Involved
Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families affected by DMD.
Our Story
Why Ayinza was started
In Uganda, many children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) go undiagnosed due to a significant lack of awareness among both healthcare professionals and the public. Ethan’s story is one of many—his unusual movements were initially overlooked until a concerned teacher encouraged his family to seek medical evaluation. This led to the discovery of a life-altering condition: a lack of dystrophin, a crucial protein for muscle function. Without early diagnosis and intervention, children with DMD face severe mobility challenges and life-threatening complications. Many miss out on essential treatments like steroids, which could significantly slow disease progression and improve their quality of life. Families often struggle with limited access to information, medical support, and resources. Together,we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families affected by DMD in Uganda.
Patron
Doug is the owner of Growing Places Therapy Services, PLLC located in Austin, Texas. A physical therapist since 1997, he has primarily focused on pediatrics and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Since 2006, Growing Places has served over 700 children and their families, providing pediatric physical, occupational, and speech therapies in the home, school, and daycare settings. Doug is also a CureDuchenne Certified Physical Therapist® who provides Duchenne-specific intervention and instruction to families, therapists, and other healthcare professionals with CureDuchenne, an international advocacy organization.
Tony & Stella Ssimbwa
Founders
When their child was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, they faced fear, uncertainty, and a lack of support. Realizing many families in Uganda struggled alone, they founded this organization to raise awareness, improve diagnosis, and advocate for better care—ensuring no child faces DMD without help.
