The second annual Move to Cure ALS - Powell River fundraising event took place on June 22, at Willingdon Beach Park. The walk and fundraiser was organized by qathet region resident Geri Anderson; her brother Rick was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) eight years ago.
"The weather was perfect and not too hot," said Anderson.
Beginning at 9 am, 55 participants, including a few dogs and some toddlers, made their way on foot from Willingdon Beach to the Coast Guard Station and back.
"We had a total of 55 participants and raised $8,920 which included donations, silent auction and 50/50 ticket sales, exceeding our funds raised last year," said Anderson. "Rick also had a very positive experience in joining us on the walk."
Rick recently moved to the qathet region in order to be closer with family. Anderson said Rick met someone on the walk who was recently diagnosed with ALS and is having a hard time.
"They exchanged contact information and have been in touch by phone to talk about ALS," said Anderson. "Being in his eighth year, there's a lot of information he can share with the person and it is always better when you know you're not the only one with a given condition/disease."
Anderson said that connecting with others has helped Rick have something else to focus on other than his own daily struggles.
ALS causes loss of muscle control and the disease becomes worse over time. As of today, there is no effective treatment for this neurodegenerative disease that approximately 400 people in BC are currently living with.
"The future is uncertain for all of us of course but anticipating an early death or a debilitating decline in mobility is certainly daunting," said Anderson. "I would like to invite anyone in Powell River living with ALS and who is interested in joining a new support group, to contact me at 604.209.6916."
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