As walking shoes are laced in Okeover on Saturday, April 12, thoughts will be on the many people for whom walking is no longer an option.
Powell River residents Susan Hanson and Frankie Kellner have raised $90,000 over the past seven years by holding an annual Peoples Drug Mart Walk for ALS, and they hope this year to tip that amount over $100,000. All funds are given to the ALS Society of BC and Yukon.
Hanson lost her husband to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2007, only one year after being diagnosed. ALS, sometimes referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a devastating terminal disease that destroys the voluntary muscles of the body, and rarely affects the senses. ALS can happen to anyone at any time. Currently, there is no known cause or cure. Together with Kellner, she volunteers her time coordinating the walk to remember her husband and to help those who are living and struggling with the disease.
“With ALS, the mind remains vibrant while the body progressively deteriorates,” said Hanson. “Support for the body comes in the form of equipment, which the ALS Society provides free of charge. Estimated cost of equipment is approximately $100,000 per person. Walk revenue is used to fund this vital program.”
Registration for the walk begins at 9 am on Saturday at Laughing Oyster Restaurant. The walk then heads along Crowther Road. Lunch is available after the walk back at the restaurant by reservation. Cost is $25 including tax and tip with $6 from each meal being donated to the cause. There will be a silent auction, balloon bonanza and draw prizes with all funds going toward ALS patient services and for research to find a cure.
“The disease is serious; the event is joyful,” Hanson said. “Please come and support this worthwhile cause.”
Lunch reservations can be made by calling Hanson at 604.414.0318. More information about the walk is available online.
