Sign in Subscribe
Cable television broadcasting industry

Raising Awareness and Funds for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Darius Weems, a Georgia native living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), has made it his mission to raise awareness about the fatal genetic disease that affects children worldwide. With the help of eleven young friends, Weems documented their courageous journey in the award-winning documentary "Darius Goes West." The film has been viewed by millions and has raised much-needed funds for DMD research. The documentary's success has led to the creation of a charity poker tournament, hosted by Weems and professional poker players Bryan Devonshire and Gavin Smith, which will be held at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on October 2nd.

Key Takeaways:

  • Darius Weems, a 15-year-old with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), has documented his journey in the award-winning documentary "Darius Goes West."
  • The film has won awards from 28 independent film festivals and has been viewed by millions, raising funds for DMD research.
  • The Darius Goes West charity poker tournament will be held at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on October 2nd, hosted by Weems and professional poker players Bryan Devonshire and Gavin Smith.
  • Fifty percent of the initial buy-in, combined with generous product donations, will be distributed among money winners, while the remaining 50% will benefit DMD research.
  • The primary goal of the Darius Goes West foundation is to catalyze research towards treating or curing DMD.
  • DMD is the number one fatal genetic disease to affect children in the world, with experts predicting a potential cure in the near future.
  • The Darius Goes West website (www.dariusgoeswest.org) is an ongoing platform for sharing updates, videos, blog posts, and initiatives towards finding a cure for DMD.
  • The documentary's success led to the creation of the charity poker tournament, supported by the GreasieWheels production.

Statistics:

  • DMD is the number one fatal genetic disease to affect children in the world.
  • Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy could be treated or cured in the near future, according to experts.
  • 28 independent film festivals have awarded "Darius Goes West" for its impact and storytelling.
  • The documentary has been viewed by millions worldwide.
  • $200 + $20 is the cost to enter the charity poker tournament.
  • Unlimited re-buys of $50 will be available during the first three 30-minute levels.
  • A one-time $50 add-on for twice the starting stack will be available during the tournament.

Sources:

  • GreasieWheels, Copyright 2010 Marketwire, Inc., All rights reserved.

Read more