THUNDER BAY - Things will look a little different this year during the annual Walk to End ALS, but organizers and family members are hopeful they can still build on the momentum from previous years and continue the fight against this debilitating disease.
“I think last year we really got a good idea of how many people are affected by ALS directly and indirectly and how much support people are willing to provide,” said Matthew Mustapic, who’s father was diagnosed with ALS last year.
“It’s a little unfortunate we were not able to build on that momentum but I think the ALS society of Canada was creative this year and figured out a good way to still have the walk and still raise money.”
The local Walk to End ALS normally takes place in September, but this year the Thunder Bay chapter of ALS Canada will be joining chapters across the country on June 21, ALS Awareness Day, to take part in a virtual walk.
“The Walk to End ALS is the main fundraiser we have every year,” said Nicole Deschamps, regional manager with ALS Canada representing Northern Ontario.
“Usually the Walk to End ALS takes place in September. But this year in light of COVID and trying to keep everyone as safe as possible, it was decided to move the walk to a virtual platform.”
The walk will begin on the ALS Canada Facebook page at 9:30 a.m. on June 21 and kick-off with guest speakers, including Rick Mercer.
People can then head out on their own walks or activities and the Facebook live event will continue at 11 a.m. with musical performances and activities for kids. A Facebook profile is only required if people wish to share photos or videos of the walk to the ALS Canada page.
Last year the Walk to End ALS raised more than $80,000, easily surpassing the $30,000 goal.
“We were so overwhelmed last year and we are hoping to build on that this year,” Mustapic said.
The annual walk is the biggest fundraiser for ALS Canada and Deschamps said the money raised not only goes toward research for treating or finding a cure for ALS, but assisting those living with the disease.
“What we are able to do with those funds, 60 per cent of the funds raised go toward providing local support an equipment for families living with ALS,” she said. “As the disease progresses, there is ongoing need for equipment to meet the clients needs. Anywhere from a cane, to a wheelchair, a power wheelchair, beds. The equipment can get quite expensive.”
The remaining 40 per cent of funds goes toward Canadian-led research for treating ALS.
ALS, which stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a motor neuron disease that causes the death of neurons that control voluntary muscles.
“In general, the incident of ALS is two or three cases per 100,000,” Deschamps said. “But in Thunder Bay district, we have anywhere between 20 and 28 people living with ALS in Northwestern Ontario.”
Those wishing to participate in the virtual walk on June 21 can register on the Walk to End ALS website, where donations can also be made directly online.
