On June 9th, join community members from across Simcoe County for the 2024 Walk to End ALS!
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells, called motor neurons, are responsible for sending messages from the brain to the muscles. This allows us to control our movements.
As the motor neurons degenerate and die in ALS, the brain loses its ability to control voluntary muscle movement. Over time, people suffering from ALS lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe.
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An estimated 4,000 Canadians are currently living with ALS and approximately 1,000 die every single year, with 80% passing away 2 to 5 years with the first diagnosis.
There is currently no cure for ALS, and the disease is ultimately fatal. There are, however, treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for people with ALS. These treatments may include medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory support.
Research and hope
Researchers are actively working to find a cure for ALS. There have been significant advancements in understanding the disease. While a cure or effective treatment has yet to be found, there's hope that one may be found in the future.
To help fund this research, ALS Canada raises money through various events, including The Walk to End ALS is the largest community fundraiser for ALS Societies across Canada.
The Walk to End ALS
The Walk to End ALS is a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate hope for a future without ALS. It's a chance to honour those we love and have lost. And it's a great way to show support for the thousands of Canadians living with the disease.
Your fundraising efforts and generous donations support the best ALS research in the country (40% of proceeds). They'll also enable ALS Societies to provide community-based support (60% of proceeds) to people and families living with the disease.
This year, Simcoe County is hoping to raise $130,000 and we think our community will absolutely smash that goal!
You can head over to ALS Canada's page to make a general donation, donate to a team or individual, or go all in and participate in the walk yourself!
The 5KM walk will take place on June 9th at Sunnidale Park in Barrie starting at 10 AM. Parking is free on-site or on the roadway.
Together, we can create hope and make a lasting impact!
