Thank you for helping us reach our fundraising goal! Together we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by ALS. Our team is committed to raising money to support people in our community with ALS and spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure. Please consider joining our team in the Walk to Defeat ALS® or choose a team member from the list and donate to our cause.
WHY WE WALK
We are walking for my mom, who has been recently diagnosed with ALS. The progression began with the muscles in her hands and fingers, severely limiting fine motor skills, and we are devastated at the severity with which it is robbing her of the use of her hands. Living with this disease certainly takes a toll both physically and emotionally. Through it all, my mom perseveres and maintains faith and hope. She is a constant bright light for everyone who is lucky enough to know her, and we will fight this disease with every step.
WHY WE NEED YOUR HELP
Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries.
That’s why we’re participating in the Walk to Defeat ALS. To bring hope. To raise awareness. To provide resources and services to families free of charge. To help unlock the mystery of ALS and find the key to treatments and a cure. Will you join us?
ABOUT ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe.
ALS is a disease that typically involves a gradual onset. The initial symptoms of ALS can be quite varied. One person may have trouble grasping a pen or lifting a coffee cup, while another may experience a change in vocal pitch when speaking.
The rate at which ALS progresses can be quite variable, as well. Although the average life expectancy of a person with ALS is 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis, some people live 5 years, 10 years, or even longer.
Symptoms can begin in the muscles that control speech and swallowing or in the hands, arms, legs or feet. Not all people with ALS experience the same symptoms or the same sequences or patterns of progression. However, progressive muscle weakness and paralysis are universally experienced.
ALS can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease, yet it still costs loved ones an average of $250,000 a year to provide the care people living with ALS and their families need. Join the movement to provide help and hope today!
TEAM T-SHIRT
If you are able to walk with us, please consider purchasing our team shirt and wearing it on the day of the walk as we show our united support to Defeat ALS in honor of my mom, Mary Ann.
T-Shirt Link: https://www.bonfire.com/moving-for-mary-ann/