Morales brothers both deal with M.D.

BURLINGTON, Ind. (WLFI) - Jose and Meliano Morales both suffer from a form of muscular dystrophy.

The two brothers were diagnosed with the rapidly progressing form of the disease in December, 1998. But like most boys their age, the Morales brothers have other things on their minds. They both enjoy video games and car races.

"I like my PS3, it's my favorite," said Meliano Morales.

Like most teenagers Jose Morales has dreams of driving, but his illness makes that dream difficult for now.

"It limits what you can do. Like I really like racing, but I can't do it, because I can't stand up and walk," said Jose Morales.

Jose said it's hard for him, at times, to see his friends drive. He said it does help to have someone like his brother around who shares in the same situation.

Their mother Angela Richardson said the news of their diagnosis, over 10 years ago, came as a big blow.

"All I can remember doing is crying that day, when they called and told me. I called my sister and told her. But you know, what can you do," said Angela Richardson.

For Angela and Jonathon Richardson the hardest part about the boys' illness is the rapid rate that it takes over the body.

"It's hard to watch the progression. Especially after you get to know the boys. Its hard to watch something like that just eat their lives away," said the boys' stepfather, Jonathon Richardson.

The boys' father is currently serving a tour of duty and saw them last week while on a short leave.

Both of the boys have been benefiting from the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for a few years now. They both have been attended the MDA-sponsored summer camp for about six years.

"Sometimes we have a water gun fight. Thats really fun," said Jose Morales.

If you're interested in contributing to the MDA, tune in to the MDA telethon this Labor Day weekend on News Channel 18. It kicks off at 8 p.m. on September 5th, and ends on September 6th at 6:30.