Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that causes body paralyzation when the brain can’t communicate with muscles.
Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, there are nearly 3,000 Canadians suffering from ALS, 400 in B.C., and Prince George is going to show off its purple attire this weekend in hopes of raising awareness and research funding.
The annual Walk to End ALS will be at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park where nearly 100 people, able-bodied or not, are expected to wear purple clothing in support of those living with the disease.
According to the ALS Society of B.C., the life expectancy of someone with ALS after being diagnosed is three to five years.
June is also proclaimed as ALS Awareness Month in B.C., and Prince George is one of 100 walks that have or will take place across the province.
As of 8:30 a.m. today (June 19), the Prince George fundraiser for ALS has reached nearly $5,300 in total funds, but that's only from online donations as the ultimate goal is $20,000.
The event is the largest volunteer-led fundraiser for ALS Societies in Canada and families are encouraged to come out and walk together.
Prince George’s walk is slated for Sunday (June 23) at 11 a.m. with registration starting at 10 a.m.
The walk will take local residents around the park led by bagpipes and will also include a barbecue lunch, a silent auction, and activities for kids.
More information about ALS or how you can donate is on event’s website.
On Our Radar is just a thing we do when we're looking forward to an event or think the public should be aware of it. Think you have something for it? Email us at [email protected].
