The 2-mile walk is the Les Turner ALS Foundation's biggest fundraiser and the largest annual event for ALS in the Midwest. It brings those living with ALS, their families, and caregivers together to walk for help, for life and for funds to support those living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Many walkers join together as teams to raise awareness and critical funding for ALS care and research at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine and Lois Insolia ALS Clinic.
ALS is a disease that weakens the muscles used to move, swallow and breathe. The effects of ALS grow more severe over time and eventually become fatal. The symptoms and progression of ALS may vary greatly from person to person, which can make the disease difficult to diagnose, manage and treat. There is no cure for ALS, yet.
"All those who join us to honor and support those living with ALS understand the many challenges of this disease. Through the ALS Walk for Life, we unite as a community to support families and caregivers who care for their loved ones with ALS," said Les Turner ALS Foundation CEO Laura Freveletti.
"The Les Turner ALS Foundation's support services team works tirelessly to advocate and care for people with ALS and their families. The team's professionals offer help to improve quality of life, access to care and resources, and day-to-day solutions to the continual challenges posed by ALS. Our goal is to help people with ALS confidently navigate the disease and to support scientific research focused on prevention, treatment, and ultimately a cure," she added.
The teams created for the ALS Walk for Life generally walk in memory of a loved one who suffered from ALS or for those who are still dealing with it. Their stories are profound and touching. Some have walked for 20 years or more, explained Freveletti.
For more information about the ALS Walk for Life, see www.alswalkforlife.org.