Stories

Journey of a Ph.D. with Muscular Dystrophy

March 4, 2024

Tye Martin, diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, earned his Ph.D. in biomedical engineeringI’m a 35 year old with Muscular Dystrophy from the Land of Enchantment (aka New Mexico). As a lifelong learner, I constantly emphasized academics which led me to earn a PhD in Biomedical Engineering in 2019. I attribute much of my success to my experience with MD, which has taught me deep thinking and allowed my creativity to flourish.

In 2021, a septic gallbladder forced me into a 40+ day stay in intensive care leading to a life “reset button”. During this time, I lost my ability to eat/drink, drive my power chair, or even talk. As someone with already limited independence, losing my ability to speak was the most difficult thing I’ve ever experienced. I am now using my knowledge from over 25 years of experience in academia and 30 years living with Muscular Dystrophy to help others with neuromuscular disease.

I am currently volunteering with the Muscular Dystrophy Association as an ambassador and Laughing at My Nightmare, Inc. as a board member. My mission moving forward is to share my story with others in order to help improve rights and increase people’s understanding of how awesome life can be despite the challenges presented MD. I invite anyone interested in following my journey to check out my Instagram @dr.tyedmartin.

Laughing at My Nightmare, Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to providing assistive devices for those with disabilities.

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