WHO: Hunter, a fourth grader, and Dusty, a fifth grader, from Dunlap, TN who both suffer from Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

WHAT: When Hunter and Dusty first floated in a hot tub at their aunt and uncle’s home, they were hooked immediately.  The brothers are confined to wheelchairs and had never felt such freedom of movement before.  Thanks to ThermoSpas, Hunter and Dusty are now able to experience that freedom right in their own backyard.

WHY: Hunter and Dusty suffer from Duchenne MD, a gradually progressive neuromuscular disease which causes progressive weakness and is accompanied by contractures of the limbs. 

Not only does a hot tub provide Hunter and Dusty with a chance to move and play freely on their own, but it also offers proven therapy.  The benefits of hydrotherapy (water therapy) include:

• Muscle relaxation, which can reduce muscle spasms
• Decreased gravity, which increases breath control
• Improved trunk control, balance and coordination
• Increased mobility and range of motion for children who are wheelchair-bound
• Increased strength and endurance

According to Randall G. Trudell, M.D., Clinical Director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic in Knoxville, “Warm water therapy treatment such as in the setting of a hot tub would be significantly beneficial for these boys in assisting range of motion physical therapy to maintain flexibility and decrease the risk of contractures.”

Hunter and Dusty live with their parents, Angie and Fritz, and their younger sister, Sydney.

ThermoSpas donated and installed a Concord Spa, which is big enough to fit the whole family, yet still fit in their backyard.  It comes with 46 jets for therapy.