Western Australia author, Dorothy May Howard from Girrawheen has written her third book to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Western Australia.
She has supported the charity since it started in the late 1960s, having personal experience with the genetic disease. Her three brothers died from Duchenne muscular dystrophy at young ages and she also lost her nephew and two grandsons who had the condition.
She has been scripting poems and verses in recognition of her family since childhood and has recently launched her third poetry book, titled Celestial Verses through Heaven’s Gate, on the 1st June 2017.
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Muscular Dystrophy Association Western Australia, Sister Howard will donate 80 per cent of her book proceeds to the organisation, and the remaining 20 per cent to Telethon, Western Australia which is also celebrating its 50th year in 2017.
Muscular dystrophy is a genetic neuromuscular condition that affects more than 20,000 Australians and has no cure. With more than 35 types of muscular dystrophy conditions identified, the severity and deterioration of muscle strength and function varies, making treatment difficult. “Muscular Dystrophy Association WA believes no one should be defined by their condition,” Chief Executive Officer Hayley Lethlean said.
Hayley Lethlean added, “Thanks to the many supporters like Dorothy throughout our 50-year history, we continue to serve the muscular dystrophy community, enabling individuals to do the things they strive to achieve. Together, we approach challenges to create solutions that empower full lives.” Dorothy funded the printing of the books herself and will be selling her book of poems for $12 each at Perth northern suburbs shopping centres in coming months.
She is a member of Madeley congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Perth, Western Australia.