On Saturday, March 17, more than 600 people will gather at the Palm Beach Outlets in West Palm Beach to join the fight to find a cure for ALS,
Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS progressively paralyzes its victims, attacking nerve cells and pathways in the brain or spinal cord, taking away their ability to walk, talk, eat and eventually breathe. ALS has no known cause or cure, but the South Florida community is rallying together to change that.
One of those participating again this year is Chris Carr, diagnosed with ALS in 2016 when he was just 28 years old. Carr and his wife Tiffany were devastated by his diagnosis, but remain determined to live with ALS. They continue to travel, spend time with family and friends, and remain very active. They are also working to raise awareness of ALS.
“This kind of community support truly represents what the Walk to Defeat ALS is all about,” said Julie Niehoff, director of Communications for the ALS Association Florida Chapter. “These events give hope and help to people affected by ALS and show them they are not alone in their fight.”
Wheelchair-bound patients, along with their families and friends, will make a two-mile trek in the Walk to Defeat ALS, hoping their steps will make a difference for ALS patients living in Florida. Many who walk have a loved one who is still fighting the deadly disease. Others walk in memory of a loved one who has lost the battle. Many people without any personal connection still walk out of concern for those who are suffering.
The Walk to Defeat ALS is the ALS Association’s signature event in which all funds directly support cutting-edge research, programs and patient care. Last year, more than 6,000 people walked in events throughout Florida, raising almost $1.5 million. All interested walkers should call (888) 257-1717, ext. 114, or register online at www.walktodefeatals.org.
