Posted Sept. 26, 2016

MONTEREY PARK, Calif. -- Coaches around the country joined forces, on Saturday, Sept. 24 to support the Coach to Cure MD Program at football games including East Los Angeles College. The Huskies welcomed Avery Faeth, his family and friends to bring awareness to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and support the Coach to Cure MD Program.

"It was a great experience for everyone involved," said ELAC sophomore offensive lineman Francis Bongwalanga (St. Bonaventure's RC Secondary School, London, England). "We are not just students and football players here at ELAC, we reach out to the community and, as we give, we learn. It was important reaching out to Avery and the Coach to Cure MD program"

Avery was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy two months shy of his third birthday.

This life-limiting, devastating condition results in progressive muscle loss that leads to serious medical problems, particularly issues relating to the heart and lungs. Those with Duchenne typically live into their late teens or twenties.

Despite promising research that may someday slow down the progression and ultimately stop the disease, there is currently no cure.

East Los Angeles Coaching Staff wore patches on their sleeves to raise awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

In addition, those in attendance during the game had a chance to text the word "Cure" to 90999 to donate $5. For information on how to donate, visit:

http://www.parentprojectmd.org/site/PageServer?pagename=CTCMD#

East Los Angles athletes participate in community service events year-round including multiple events during the Holiday Season.

"This opportunity for the football program brought a connection to kids less fortunate," said ELAC Football Coach Bobby Godinez. "Raising awareness of this and other community issues, brought things into perspective."