A Petawawa father and military veteran is preparing to lace up his running shoes for a gruelling endurance challenge aimed at supporting research into a rare genetic disease affecting his son.
Duane Allen will attempt his sixth consecutive 4x4x48 Challenge from April 10 to April 12, running 6.4 kilometres every four hours for 48 hours to raise funds for Duchenne muscular dystrophy research.
Allen said his motivation is deeply personal. His 16-year-old son, James Allen, was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy before birth in 2009.
The progressive disease causes muscles to weaken over time and can eventually affect the heart and lungs. There is currently no cure.
Despite the condition’s daily challenges, James has remained active in his community. Last year, he became the first student representative on his school board’s Accessibility Working Group, advocating for greater inclusion.
Allen said his son’s resilience continues to inspire his efforts.
“That one breakthrough in research — that’s all we need. It’s all we’re looking for,” he said.
Over the past five years, Allen has raised nearly $38,000 for Duchenne-related initiatives. This year, he hopes to bring in an additional $15,000 through the endurance challenge.
Funds raised will support research and advocacy efforts led by Defeat Duchenne Canada, a national organization focused on accelerating progress toward treatments.
According to the group, more than $20 million has already been invested in Duchenne research, largely through community fundraising efforts.
Nicola Worsfold, executive director of Defeat Duchenne Canada, said Allen’s efforts reflect the determination of families affected by the disease.
“We are made up of a community who refuses to give up on a better future for our children,” Worsfold said in a statement.
Allen said the challenge is about more than just running.
“With every mile and every donation, we’re helping move things forward,” he said. “This marks the sixth year of the event, and I’m excited to make it the best yet.”
Donations can be made through the Defeat Duchenne website.
(Steve Berard)
