Hope for Gus is dedicated to funding research and improving the lives of those impacted by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Leading with hope for all children with DMD

When Gus was born on May 10, 2005, Tonya and Steve Dreher knew their family was complete. They had been blessed with three beautiful children. Even though Gus was five weeks premature, they knew he would eventually catch up. Yet he still struggled. When his diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy was confirmed, Tonya and Steve immediately began raising money to fund research for DMD.

Today, Hope for Gus has funded over twenty research initiatives and clinical trials with the continued goal to save Gus – and all children with DMD.

What is DMD?

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is the most severe form of muscular dystrophy. DMD is a recessive genetic mutation that occurs on the X chromosome. As a result, it almost exclusively affects boys.

What we're funding

Promising treatments and family support

We work to leverage every donation through collaboration with other DMD organizations and through direct funding of cutting edge treatments and clinical trials. The research is promising, and we continue to gain hope and knowledge everyday.

Foundation Highlights and Updates

Patient families and UMass Chan build a brighter future for the Duchenne community

February 21, 2025

The UMass Duchenne Program relies on philanthropic support to maintain its care model, including aid from the Hope for Gus Foundation.

Hope for Gus founder Tonya Dreher receives the 2022 Greg Farrell Award

February 27, 2023

We are delighted to announce that Tonya Dreher has been named as the recipient of the 2022 Greg Farrell Award.

Hope for Gus Mount Everest Hike Helps Raise Awareness for DMD

April 19, 2022

Jill said she’s honored to have participated in the trek. “I’m grateful to get the word out about Duchenne and to share this experience with others who we

Hope for Gus supports Muscular Dystrophy Organization of Nepal, a home and center for boys with DMD, with funds raised through Everest to End Duchenne.