Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy Expands Leadership Team to Accelerate Progress for Duchenne, Becker Community

Pat Furlong Remains as President; Katherine Beaverson Appointed as Chief Executive Officer

WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), a nonprofit organization leading the fight to end Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne), is pleased to announce the expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Katherine Beaverson, MS as Chief Executive Officer. Pat Furlong, PPMD's founder and longtime President and CEO, will remain as President, continuing her decades of leadership, bold advocacy and wholehearted commitment to the Duchenne and Becker community.

This expansion reflects PPMD's commitment to advancing its mission and meeting the evolving needs of the community, as new opportunities, challenges, and developments in the therapeutic landscape emerge in the fight to end Duchenne.

"For more than thirty years, PPMD has worked side-by-side with families, clinicians, industry, and policymakers to advance research, champion care, and advocate fiercely for our community," said Pat Furlong, President and founder of PPMD. "We are thrilled to welcome Katherine Beaverson, whose extensive experience and deep commitment to the Duchenne and Becker space will help us continue to build our legacy. Katherine is uniquely positioned to strengthen our partnerships and programs, and accelerate progress for families everywhere."

Katherine Beaverson brings over 15 years of experience in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy and rare disease, beginning her career as a genetic counselor supporting individuals and families navigating complex diagnoses. She has held leadership roles spanning clinical research, medical affairs, and patient advocacy, and is widely recognized for her ability to foster meaningful partnerships across the clinical, research, and industry sectors. Katherine's work has focused on advancing innovative collaborations, bridging the gap between science and patient care, and ensuring that families remain at the center of progress in the rare disease field.

"I am honored to join PPMD and continue working with this incredible community," said Beaverson. "Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the dedication of families, clinicians, researchers and advocates working tirelessly to improve the lives of those living with Duchenne and Becker. I am committed to supporting the growth, innovation, and power of PPMD's national and global networks. Together, we will continue to drive meaningful progress for every person and family affected by Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy."

With this expanded leadership structure, PPMD will further its mission to end Duchenne, support families, and foster collaboration across all sectors—ensuring that the voices and needs of the community remain central to every effort.

To learn more about PPMD's programs and advocacy efforts, visit PPMD's website.

About Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne is a genetic disorder that slowly robs people of their muscle strength. Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) fights every single battle necessary to end Duchenne.

We demand optimal care standards and ensure every family has access to expert healthcare providers, cutting edge treatments, and a community of support. We invest deeply in treatments for this generation of Duchenne patients and in research that will benefit future generations. Our advocacy efforts have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding and won eight FDA approvals.

Everything we do—and everything we have done since our founding in 1994—helps those with Duchenne live longer, stronger lives. We will not rest until we end Duchenne for every single person affected by the disease. Join our fight against Duchenne at EndDuchenne.org. Follow PPMD on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

SOURCE Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD)