Isaiah Dale Named Ambassador of Muscular Dystrophy Association

Isaiah Dale, 7th-grader at South Middle School, was named an Ambassador of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for his contributions towards the MDA and courageous attitude.

Isaiah was diagnosed with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease (CMT) July of 2015 at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital. CMT causes muscle weakness and atrophy in the feet, lower legs, hands and forearms. He underwent genetic testing to narrow down what specific type of CMT he has. There are over 70 different types of the disease, all affecting the body in different ways.

“There is no cure for CMT, but we are hopeful that someday there will be,” said Isaiah’s Mother, September Dale. “Both Isaiah and the MDA play a big role in that.”

Last year Isaiah attended Camp Courageous, a summer camp sponsored by the MDA, where he was nominated by the camp directors to be a local Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He was officially named an Ambassador in February when a family friend and MDA representative surprised him with the award during his school lunch.

“The best part about being an Ambassador is being able to go to events and talk to people about my story and tell them what CMT is,” said Isaiah. “I think raising awareness is important because no one really knows what CMT is. Sometimes people ask me why I wear leg braces and I say ‘I have CMT’ but people don’t know what that is.  Another thing that I like about being an Ambassador is that I can raise money at all the events we do and all that money goes towards finding a cure, and that is really important to me.”

In addition to becoming an Ambassador, Isaiah is also the captain of team #IsaiahStrong which took part in the 2017 Des Moines Muscle Walk at Principal Park April 29. He also inspired his mother to run the Chicago Half Marathon this May. So far the team has raised over $2,500 for these events combined.

“Fundraising and creating awareness is important because finding a cure takes money. Isaiah also goes around to local businesses who participate in the MDA Shamrock events and thanks them, takes pictures and hands out his flyers to be displayed at their stores,” said September. “He also volunteers at other MDA events in the area.  His main goal is to share his story, create awareness, and most importantly- find a cure. To say that I am proud of Isaiah is an understatement. He is my hero. I believe wholeheartedly that Isaiah will change the world, and I am so glad that I get to be right next to him while he does.”