ASCADIM provides physical, psychological, and social care to people with muscular dystrophies in Southern Brazil. The organization was created based on insights from parents on the despair they felt following diagnosis and their desire for more trusted information. Via ASCADIM, patients and their families can access vital support, guidance, and free physical therapy – crucial to those who use a wheelchair or have limited mobility. ASCADIM is the only institution to provide this type of care in the region.
After initially holding appointments at the physiotherapy clinic of Santa Catrina Far South University, ASCADIM acquired their own building in 2012. However, since moving, there had been no renovations. They held fundraisers to fix structural problems in 2019. However, ongoing financial limitations meant that the organization was temporarily unable to support and treat patients.
Total patient safety, care and free support are of the utmost importance for ASCADIM, who not only provide crucial physiotherapy services but are also invested in encouraging, assisting, and promoting research on a range of muscular dystrophies.
Prior to receiving the STRIVE award, ASCADIM was only able to provide care to 22 patients. With help from STRIVE funding, they have been able to create a facility that is customized to the unique challenges of Duchenne patients.
With improved facilities and equipment, ASCADIM will continue to create a much-needed safe space where a community can grow and thrive whilst providing essential free, specialized care to those living with Duchenne and support their families at critical milestones and the wider muscular dystrophy community in Southern Brazil.