Seasons of Giving

Dunlap, TN - Hunter, a nine-year-old fourth grader, and Dusty, an eleven-year-old fifth grader, from Dunlap Tennessee had their wish granted by Therma Spa. When brothers Hunter and Dusty, who both suffer from Muscular Dystrophy (MD), first tried out a hot tub at their aunt and uncle’s home, they were immediately thrilled. Both brothers are confined to wheelchairs and had never experienced such relaxation and freedom of movement. Thanks to Therma Spa, Hunter and Dusty are now able to enjoy that freedom every day in their very own hot tub.

Hunter and Dusty both suffer from Duchenne MD, a gradually progressive neuromuscular disease which causes progressive weakness and is accompanied by contractures of the limbs. The hot tub gives Hunter and Dusty a chance to move and play freely on their own, and has provided them with many benefits.

• In general, it makes Dusty and Hunter feel a lot better.
• It helps them move around more freely, especially their legs.
• They use the spa 2 - 3 times a week and are always more relaxed when they get out.
• It helps their mother, Angie, with her back. She has severe back problems from the constant lifting and carrying of her two boys.
• It helps the entire family sleep better and easier.

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. Therma Spa donated and installed a Concord Spa with 46 jets for warm water therapy, which is large enough to hold the entire family, yet it still fits in their backyard.

Hunter and Dusty

These special boys are an inspiration to all of us here at Therma Spa, and we are proud to be able to help them out with our Seasons of Giving hot tub donation!

To nominate a child for a Therma Spa Seasons of Giving hot tub donation, or for more information, please click here.