#United States #ALS United #Wheaton #Walk ALS #Cantigny Park

Join the Fight Against ALS at Walk ALS Chicago!

This Saturday, May 31, Wheaton, Illinois will host the inspiring Walk ALS Chicago at the picturesque Cantigny Park. Organized by ALS United Greater Chicago, this event promises to be a day filled with hope and unity as participants come together in support of individuals and families affected by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Known for its severity, ALS, also referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, currently has no cure. The community in the Chicago area is rallying to raise awareness and funds to combat this devastating disease.

The theme for this year's walk is "In Our United Era," emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the fight against ALS. Teams are encouraged to bring friendship bracelets to exchange during the event, symbolizing that no one battles this disease alone. Scott Marsell, who lives with ALS and is participating for the second time, said, "It gives me a sense of making a difference and being part of a movement that truly matters."

The event kicks off with registration and check-in beginning at 8:00 AM. The walk itself starts at 10:00 AM and features a route that is fully accessible for wheelchairs. It's an ideal environment for families, with fun activities planned throughout the day. A kids' zone will entertain the little ones, and breakfast will be served before the walk, followed by lunch provided after the event. Emma-Leigh Strock, a long-time team captain, shared her thoughts about Walk Day, saying, "Regardless of whether teams have their ALS hero with them or are remembering someone special, the day is filled with positivity and the spirit of togetherness."

Participation is free, with no fundraising target required, yet those who raise $90 will receive special event t-shirts. The choice of $90 is poignant; it symbolizes how a new ALS diagnosis occurs every 90 minutes in the U.S., with another individual losing their battle at the same interval. Proceeds raised contribute to critical research aimed at finding a cure and offer support to those currently battling the disease right in our neighborhoods.

To register for the Walk to Defeat ALS or sign up as a volunteer, visit walkalschicago.org or call 312-932-0000.

About ALS

ALS is a serious neuromuscular condition that affects thousands. Every 90 minutes, someone is diagnosed, and similarly, someone succumbs to the disease. Notably, military veterans are diagnosed at nearly twice the rate of the general population, but currently, there is no cure available, and life expectancy post-diagnosis generally ranges from 2 to 5 years.

About ALS United Greater Chicago

ALS United Greater Chicago is committed to providing vital care services, driving awareness, and funding research initiatives to discover a cure for ALS. The organization offers complimentary support to individuals and their families, which includes a medical equipment loan program, support groups, and caregiver respite grants. Their mission is to unite the ALS community to promote bold research efforts and advocacy, while ensuring comprehensive care for all affected families. For more information, visit alsunitedchicago.org.