The Time Is Now.
Help Us Heal DMD.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a devastating, life-shortening disease affecting thousands of children. We’re fighting to change that — through research, advocacy, and direct family support.
Raised in 2024
Volunteer Board
Meet Michael.
Michael is a sweet little boy — full of life, laughter, and love. He is also a braveheart who is battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy every single day.
DMD is a rare and ultimately fatal muscle disease. There is currently no cure. Children with DMD typically lose the ability to walk by their early teens, and face serious heart and breathing complications as the disease progresses.
Michael’s story is why Heal DMD exists. And he is not alone — thousands of children and families need our help right now.
How We Make a Difference
Every dollar donated to Heal DMD goes directly toward our two core missions.
Research Funding
The majority of funds go toward promising gene therapy research and other therapeutics that can significantly change the course of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. We fund the science that gives families hope.
Family Assistance
Living with DMD brings extraordinary challenges—from mounting medical bills and the need for adaptive equipment to home modifications that make daily life possible. Insurance gaps and out-of-pocket expenses can quickly become overwhelming, adding financial strain to an already difficult journey.
Heal DMD offers benevolent support to families facing these burdens. We help fund essential equipment, enable access to therapies and treatments, and provide relief during critical moments of need. Every dollar donated helps support families living with DMD, easing everyday burdens so they can focus on what matters most.
Building a Movement, One Step at a Time
From our founding to today, every event and milestone brings us closer to a world without DMD.
Heal DMD Hike
Heal DMD organized a community hike to raise awareness and funds for DMD. Families, friends, and supporters came together outdoors to walk in solidarity with DMD individuals who dream of taking steps of their own. The hike brought our community closer, turning miles into hope.
2023 — Heal DMD Inaugural Gala
In 2023, Heal DMD hosted its inaugural gala — an evening of hope, community, and purpose. Supporters, medical professionals, and DMD families gathered to celebrate the progress being made in Duchenne research. The gala raised critical funds for research initiatives and family assistance.
2024 — Heal DMD Gala
The 2024 Gala brought together an even larger community of donors, advocates, and families. The evening featured inspiring stories, updates on cutting-edge research, and a renewed commitment to our mission.
Heal DMD Steps of Hope
Initiated and organized by passionate teen volunteers, Steps of Hope is a community fundraising walk dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Young leaders stepped up to rally their peers, families, and neighbors in support of the DMD community — proving that the next generation is ready to make a difference. Every step taken brought us closer to a future without DMD.
Your Donation Saves Lives
Heal DMD is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law; please consult your tax advisor.
EIN: 92-2757865 · 501(c)(3) · Scottsdale, AZ · Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law; please consult your tax advisor.
Board of Directors
Heal DMD is led by an all-volunteer board — 100% of donations go to our mission.
Andrey Vorobyovski
President & Co-Founder
Andrey Vorobyovski is President and Co-Founder of Heal DMD. A serial entrepreneur with experience across automotive, real estate, travel, technology, and social impact, he brings energy, vision, and community leadership to the organization. He is committed to raising awareness, mobilizing support, and improving the lives of families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Ayuna Tckachenko, PhD
Vice President & Co-Founder
Ayuna Tckachenko is Vice President and Co-Founder of Heal DMD. A DMD mother and senior executive in global risk, analytics, and product transformation, she brings strong experience leading enterprise data initiatives and building high-performing teams. She is dedicated to advancing support, hope, and meaningful progress for families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Mahasweta Dhawan
Treasurer
Mahasweta Dhawan serves as Treasurer of Heal DMD. She is a Vice President of Customer Data and Relationship Platform at American Express with more than two decades of experience in the financial industry. She brings strategic leadership, operational insight, and a strong commitment to creating meaningful impact for families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Dmitriy Urich, RN
Secretary
Dmitriy Urich serves as Secretary of Heal DMD. He is a registered nurse with more than 20 years of experience and an Arizona State University graduate who began his career in pediatrics. He is dedicated to supporting children and families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy with compassion, care, and practical advocacy.
Our Advisors
Expert volunteers guiding Heal DMD’s strategy and impact.
Danielle Crop
Advisor
Danielle Crop is an Advisor to Heal DMD. She is Executive Vice President of Digital Strategy at WNS, bringing deep expertise in data, analytics, AI/ML, product, and enterprise digital transformation. Danielle previously served as Chief Data Officer at American Express and Albertsons, where she led large-scale data initiatives to drive growth and innovation. She brings strategic leadership and a strong commitment to mission-driven impact in support of families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Dr. Michael Dupuy, MD
Advisor
Dr. Michael Dupuy is an Advisor to Heal DMD. An anesthesiologist with more than 40 years of experience, he brings decades of medical knowledge and a deep commitment to improving care for children and families. He supports Heal DMD’s mission with compassion, clinical insight, and a strong belief in advancing hope for the Duchenne community.
Dr. Chris Henslee, MD
Advisor
Dr. Chris Henslee is an Advisor to Heal DMD. An anesthesiologist with Envision Healthcare, he brings clinical expertise, leadership experience, and a strong commitment to serving families and children. He supports Heal DMD’s mission through compassionate advocacy and dedication to improving the lives of those affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support the DMD community.
Donate
Every dollar funds research and directly supports families. Tax-deductible. No overhead.
Volunteer
Join our growing team of dedicated volunteers. We need people with all kinds of skills.
Spread the Word
Share our mission on social media, tell your friends, and help us reach more families.