News Summary

The Capital City community hosted the annual ‘Cure Duchenne Night’ to raise funds and awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This heartfelt event, organized by Capital City High School, honored the journey of a local graduate, T.J. Clime, who battles DMD, and successfully raised over $30,000 for the cause. The night included various fundraising activities, along with the unveiling of the TJ Clime Award to recognize outstanding players in the soccer program, furthering the community’s mission to support research and awareness for this rare disease.

Capital City Comes Together for a Heartwarming Cause

In the vibrant community of Capital City, an inspiring event unfolded as the local high school, Capital City High School, hosted the annual “Cure Duchenne Night,” honoring the courageous battle of graduate T.J. Clime against Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This annual tradition has become more than just a game; it’s a heartfelt gathering aimed at raising awareness and funds to fight this rare disease.

Understanding Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

T.J. Clime, a remarkable young man who graduated in 2023, was diagnosed with DMD at just 8 years old, on February 8, 2012. DMD is a serious and progressive muscular disease that affects around 300,000 children and young adults worldwide. Sadly, many individuals affected by this condition do not survive into their 30s, making the urgency for awareness and research paramount.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy wreaks havoc on the body, degenerating muscle strength and function in a way that no one should have to endure. T.J. describes it as a disease that impacts every muscle in his body, showing just how devastating this illness can be.

A Family’s Mission

The impact of this diagnosis hit hard, affecting not just T.J. but his entire family, including his devoted parents, Sara and Craig Clime. Their emotional journey turned into a mission, propelling them to raise awareness and seek a cure for DMD. Watching their son navigate life with this disease inspired them to take action. Craig, in particular, began partnering with a local high school football team to spread the word about Duchenne muscular dystrophy when T.J. was just a kid.

Things took an exciting turn when T.J.’s older brother, Connor Clime, joined a soccer team. The focus shifted to soccer, allowing the family to embrace a larger community through the sport. They sold merchandise like scarves and T-shirts, creating a buzz and raising much-needed funds for Duchenne awareness through a parent-led organization.

Cure Duchenne Night: A Special Event

Every year, the Capital City High School boys’ soccer program holds the cherished “Cure Duchenne Night” during one of their games, where fundraising activities abound. Through these remarkable events, the program has successfully raised over $30,000 for the cause, making a meaningful impact on the fight against DMD.

This year’s event was particularly significant as it coincided with World Duchenne Awareness Day, adding an extra layer of importance to the celebration. T.J. played a special role as the first team manager for the soccer program, which he considers a defining part of his high school experience, stamping the night with memories that will last a lifetime.

Honoring T.J.: The TJ Clime Award

The spirit of T.J. is further immortalized through the establishment of the TJ Clime Award, which is awarded each season to one outstanding player in the soccer program. This not only recognizes talent but also keeps T.J.’s story alive, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire others.

Players on the soccer team, including seniors Brett Wieberg and Quintin Hall, emphasize their dedication to T.J. during the game, playing in his honor and to raise awareness about DMD. The energy and camaraderie among the players create an atmosphere filled with hope and determination.

A Night to Remember

Craig Clime has also taken on the role of public address announcer for home soccer games, where he shines a light on this beautiful evening that has become his favorite of the season. The team coach, Joel Henley, underscores the importance of playing for something greater than just soccer on “Cure Duchenne Night,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with everyone involved.

With events like “Cure Duchenne Night,” the Capital City community continues to support T.J. and the vital mission to fight against Duchenne muscular dystrophy. If you wish to learn more about this noble cause or find ways to contribute, more information and donation opportunities can be found at cureduchenne.org. Together, the community is making strides to bring awareness and ultimately, a cure for DMD.

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