Defeat Duchenne Canada (formerly Jesse's Journey)
John and Jesse Davidson founded Jesse’s Journey in 1995 to lead research, advocacy and support in the fight to defeat Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Since then, we’ve united families, raised awareness and funded $17 million in research projects around the world.
How far would you go for the ones you love? That was the question our Founder, John Davidson, from London, Ontario, asked himself when his middle son, Jesse, was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The answer? As far as it takes to find a cure. Jesse Davidson was an alumnus of Fanshawe’s Hotel Management program, a Distinguished Alumni Award winner and a Premier’s Awards nominee. Jesse sadly passed away in 2009, leaving a lasting legacy.
Their vision remains our foundation: a future without Duchenne. In 2022, we became Defeat Duchenne Canada: the country’s only national charity dedicated to curing this disorder and dramatically improving the lives of boys and families who have to cope with its debilitating symptoms. Learn more about our mission and join us in changing the outcome of this life-limiting disease; www.defeatduchenne.ca
Impact
The Peter Garland/Defeat Duchenne Canada Community Involvement Award was established to recognize a graduating student from Fanshawe’s Broadcasting – Radio program who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to volunteering/community service and a keen interest in the program.