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People Magazine – Two Scientists Vow to Find a Cure

When Valerie Pappas Llauro’s 5-year-old son Alexander was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy – a rare and fatal form of the genetic illness that primarily affects boys – doctors said her son’s only treatment options were “steroids and hope”. The steroids would help to slow down the muscle damage caused by his progressive disease, while […]

Trojan Outreach – Trojan Wish Alex Llauro

On Saturday, Oct. 19, 12-year-old Alex Llauro enjoyed a VIP experience as part of Trojan Outreach’s Trojan Wish program. Llauro, who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2011, has always been a huge USC fan. Recently, he was named an honorary member of the 2019 USC Football team. And earlier this season, he came out to […]

Walking Strong: Living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Sometimes, it takes a world-shaking event to put things into perspective. For the Llauro family, this life-changing event came in the form of a happy, smiling bundle of joy. In 2005, Valerie Pappas Llauro gave birth to her first child, a baby boy. Alexander Llauro was just like any other cheerful baby. When he was […]