The Power of Parental Love: Barry and Kristy's Campaign for Their Son Charlie

PERTH, Western Australia - HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY CHARLIE! At 6:42 p.m. on Thursday, 16th July 2009, Charlie Mone was born—a beautiful, healthy baby boy with sparkling eyes and a cheeky smile that could light up a room. On Wednesday, 16th July 2025, Charlie is celebrating his16th birthday. It’s a birthday filled with profound emotion and deep meaning for his family.

Diagnosed in early childhood with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)—a rare, progressive, and life-limiting muscle-wasting disease—Charlie has faced immense challenges. But for 15 remarkable years, he has not only endured—he has inspired. His courage, humour, and positivity continue to shine, grounded in the unwavering love and fierce devotion of his parents, Barry and Kristy.

A Life Lived with Strength and Support

DMD gradually weakens every muscle in the body, ultimately robbing children of the ability to walk, breathe independently, and move freely. From the moment of diagnosis, Barry and Kristy made a choice—not to give in to despair, but to fight. For time, for dignity, and for every moment that matters.

Charlie has faced the realities of DMD with resilience beyond his years. Despite the physical toll, he has held on to his personality, his hope, and his zest for life. Whether speaking at public events, sharing moments of joy online, or connecting with others living with rare conditions, Charlie continues to defy expectations with quiet strength and open-hearted honesty.

The Village That Stands Beside Them

While Barry and Kristy have led this journey with unmatched courage, they have not walked it alone. A powerful network of organisations, community groups, and supporters have stood beside them, providing vital assistance, encouragement, and resources to help make every day count.

Among the most impactful supporters:

• Telethon7 Perth has helped elevate Charlie’s story to a national audience and provided funding for essential services, equipment, and research efforts.

• Muscular Dystrophy WA (MDWA) has walked closely with the Mone family, offering practical support, family services, and connection to the wider muscular dystrophy community.

• Duchenne Australia, a key voice in research and policy, has helped guide Barry and Kristy through treatment options, clinical trial opportunities, and national advocacy.

• Make-A-Wish Foundation granted Charlie one of his most joyful and memorable experiences— was owning his own robot contributed by Woodside, Rio Tinto and University of Western Australia

• Ernst & Young Asia-Pacific (EY APAC) has played a unique role by driving corporate awareness campaigns and leading workplace fundraising initiatives that not only provided financial support, but also educated professionals across the Asia-Pacific region about Duchenne and Charlie’s story.

• The Fremantle Dockers Media Team have amplified Charlie’s voice through professional video storytelling and club platforms, sharing his journey with the football community and creating special memories behind the scenes with the team.

• Woodside Energy, Rio Tinto, and BHP have provided corporate grants and logistical support that have enabled access to specialised equipment, mobility solutions, and respite services.

• Railtrain Holdings Group has offered long-standing financial support, covering vital medical and mobility-related expenses over the years.

• ECU Joondalup and Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) have supported with local media coverage, event hosting, and educational outreach.

• Western Suburbs Business Association (WSBA) members have hosted fundraisers, awareness walks, and community talks, fostering a network of ongoing care.

Together, these supporters have become part of Charlie’s extended family—each one playing a role in his remarkable journey.

Celebrating 16 Years of Courage

As Charlie celebrates his 16th birthday, the occasion is not just a celebration of time—it is a celebration of love, perseverance, and community. Charlie has coped with this brutal condition not just by enduring, but by embracing each day with bravery and grace. Every hospital visit, every setback, and every small victory reflects the strength of his spirit and the power of those who stand beside him.

At the centre of it all are Barry and Kristy. Their love, resolve, and unwavering commitment have made it possible for Charlie not only to live—but to truly thrive. Their mantra, “Strength, Faith, Courage" has resonated with schools, businesses, sporting clubs, and thousands of Australians who now walk this journey with them.

Community Support: A Village Behind Charlie

Charlie's journey has been profoundly shaped by the unwavering support of his friends and the broader Perth community. This collective embrace has transformed challenges into shared victories, underscoring the power of unity and compassion.

Among the most notable supporters is the Beer & Beef Club, a Perth-based social group that has championed Charlie's cause for over three years. Recognizing the financial and emotional toll of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the club has organized annual fundraising events, including a significant lunch at The Raffles Hotel.

Their efforts have raised substantial funds, aiming to provide Charlie with experiences that create lasting memories.

Charlie’s school friends and local peers contribute by ensuring he remains an integral part of social activities, adapting events to be inclusive and accessible. This everyday inclusion reinforces a sense of normalcy and belonging, vital for Charlie's emotional health.

Amplifying Charlie's Story

Charlie's inspiring journey has garnered significant attention across Perth, leading to his presence on various social media platforms, posters, and billboards throughout the city. These public displays not only raise awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy but also celebrate Charlie's resilience and the community's unwavering support.

In a notable display of support, a prominent digital billboard at Yagan Square featured Charlie's campaign, "Charlie's Hope," accompanied by the words "Strength. Faith. Courage." This high-visibility location in Perth's city center served as a powerful platform to share Charlie's story with a broader audience.

Charlie's story has been widely shared on social media platforms, with numerous posts and campaigns dedicated to raising awareness and funds. These online efforts have created a virtual community rallying behind Charlie and his family.

To follow Charlie’s journey or support the fight against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, visit the links below:

• Charlie’s Speech

• Charlie - Make Every Day Count Slideshow

• Kristy’s Slideshow Tribute

• 7News Feature

• Telethon Facebook Video

The Brilliant Foundation wishes Charlie Mone a wonderful 16th Birthday with his family, friends and loved ones.

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