COLUMBUS, Ohio — To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, who is living with Becker Muscular Dystrophy, has created the newest logos for the MDA’s Shamrock Fundraiser
What You Need To Know
- Dustin Clark created the newest logos for the Muscular Dystrophy Association Shamrock Fundraiser
- Clark was diagnosed with Becker Muscular Dystrophy at 10 years old
- The campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for more than 300,000 people in the U.S. living with neuromuscular disease
“Because of that barrier, that physical barrier between things, it’s hard to imagine what you can do, but I worked hard at it, and I learned that it was something I was gifted at,” said Columbus resident Dustin Clark.
Clark was as surprised as anyone when the MDA came calling, after being inspired by his story through a video and magazine article.
“Our short film ended up being in some film festivals, and one of them was a genetic disorder festival,” said Clark. “So MDA just found the film and they were looking for a freelance designer and so they thought wow, this is our guy.”
At 10 years old, Clark, now 28, was diagnosed with Becker Muscular Dystrophy.
The genetic disorder occurs when not enough dystrophin protein is produced in the muscles, causing those muscles to break down over time.
Clark, a Pickerington North High School and Ohio State University graduate, said he’s proud to be part of the campaign to raise awareness and funds for more than 300,000 people in the U.S. living with neuromuscular disease.
“I don’t just want to make things that look nice. I want to work for people and push out messages that I believe in,” he said. “Millions of dollars that have been raised through it have gone to research, care and advocacy. It’s directly benefitted my life.”
Growing up in a musical family, Clark and his mother, Tommi, look forward to what’s next for him creatively.
He will continue to build upon his portfolio and his first album of electronic music will be released early next year.
Clark said despite his physical limitations, whether it’s music or the arts, there’s always a way for someone to fulfill their dreams.
“Disabled life is very creative, and I think if you can learn to think creatively and not limit yourself to what you could achieve, and if you work hard at things, you can find a way for yourself,” said Clark.
For more information on Clark’s designed t-shirts for the MDA, click here.
