DAYTON — The 21st annual Walk to Defeat ALS is going virtual once again. The event is the premier fundraiser for The ALS Association Central & Southern Ohio Chapter.
“While there won’t be a large in-person event this year, the Walk Your Way format allows people to show their support and join the fight by walking together in their own neighborhoods, backyards, and community parks” Executive Director Marlin Seymour said.
People with ALS and their families benefit from free services the chapter provides. They, along with members of the community, will be walking to raise money for these programs, and to continue to raise the profile of Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Team spirit will be widely visible in the small groups walking throughout the area, with participants sporting their own customized team shirts and carrying signs to demonstrate their support, honor loved ones, and remember those who have passed away.
Funds raised from the Walk are used to provide services to individuals and families living with ALS, including consultations with healthcare professionals, loaned medical equipment, financial grants, education and exchange groups, and education and information about the disease. In addition, the Chapter hosts events to raise awareness of Lou Gehrig’s Disease, advocates on behalf of ALS patients, and supports The ALS Association’s global research program that is focused on finding a cause and cure for ALS. All of these services and activities are provided free of charge to patients and their families and caregivers.
“Generous corporate sponsorships, in addition to dollars raised by teams of walkers, help us continue to serve each year,” Seymour added.
This year’s local sponsors of the Walk are Dole Fresh Vegetables, Michael Ward Legacy, and Ohio’s Hospice. Since 2001, the Chapter’s five Walk to Defeat ALS events in Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, Lima, and Glouster have raised more than $6 million.
“We’re so grateful to all of our Walk Team Captains, Walk participants and others who donate; their support truly does make a difference for ALS patients,” Seymour said.
The walk will begin Sunday, Sept. 26, but can be done whenever participants are able, in their neighborhoods, back yards or community parks. Registration and donations are open at web.alsa.org/WalktoDefeatALS-CSOH.
