On June 7th, 2014, the Sault Ste. Marie Community will come together to raise awareness and funds for people living with the terminal disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
ALS is a rapidly progressive, neuromuscular disease. It attacks the motor neurons that transmit electrical impulses from the brain to the voluntary muscles in the body. When they fail to receive messages, the muscles lose strength, atrophy and die.
ALS can strike anyone at anytime, regardless of age, gender, or ethnic origin. It does not affect the senses, and only rarely does it affect the mind. The equipment costs for each patient average $137,000, while nursing and home care costs can be up to 10 times this amount. The average life expectancy after diagnosis is 3 to 5 years.
The WALK for ALS is a fun, family friendly event occurring across the country in 90 locations including Sault Ste. Marie. Every dollar raised goes to provide equipment, support services, education for the ALS Community, and funds research to find a cure.
The last Walk for ALS held in Sault Ste. Marie was back in 2004 and organizers are very excited to see the Sault back on the map for 2014! I personally wish great success for this event. ALS hit close to home a few weeks back when our son’s friend lost her father suddenly.
For more information or to register for the walk, visit www.walkforals.ca/ontario
