The disease affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing progressive weakness, muscle atrophy, and difficulty speaking and swallowing. The debilitating disease has no cure -- yet. That's why dozens of teams and hundreds of individual walkers turned out to raise money to support research that may someday lead to a cure. Most were walking in memory of someone who had died, or in support of someone still fighting the disease.
The walkers wound through Antelope Park, dodging bikers on the bike path, and through a fading rose garden before heading back to the starting point. The last quarter mile we walked in the rain but no one complained. After one of the worst drought years on record, we were all grateful for any moisture!
The photo above shows just a few of the many walkers from Kathi's Team (in yellow). Kathi's elderly mom is the one at the far right using a walker (partially obscured by a tree -- not my day with the camera!). Kathi's mom finished the walk to show her support for her daughter's courageous fight against this cruel disease.
The walk raised $21,771.30 to date, far short of the goal of $45,000.00. Donations are still being accepted at: http://webkwc.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/KeithWorthington?fr_id=8188&pg=entry.
Perhaps the walk was a living metaphor. We begin life's journey, surrounded and encouraged by friends and family. In the words of one of my favorite oldies, "The road is long, with many a winding turn." There are cloudy days, and tears, but also friends and beautiful gardens, and grandchildren to brighten our days. In the end we return to the Source. I believe all souls have a homing instinct.
TTFN
LeAnn aka pasqueflower
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One of my best friends from college died with this devastating disease at the age of 49. We must find a cure.
ReplyDeleteI think it's so great that Kathi's mom did the walk :) Even though short of the goal, that's still a great accomplishment to raise that much money!
ReplyDeleteWe have a neighbor with ALS...such a horrible disease! It's great that you were all out there raising money to find a cure!
I am jealous that you have such initiatives in your country. It is very important, and it is wonderful that the community is engaged. I will give at least a small donation. Of course ultimately this is for the world, not just for the US.
ReplyDeletePlease give your friend Kathi my warm wishes and prayers from Uzbekistan. May she become healthy again, despite all odds.
What a great cause! I would definitely want to get involved with that as well. I hope they do find a cure, and fast!
ReplyDeleteI have 2 dear friends effected by this disease. It is heart breaking! I admire your friend for participating in the walk!
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat opportunity! I hope that they are able to meet their goal.
ReplyDeleteEven thou you did not meet the goal, it's still $21,771.30 more then they had to help find a cure for this debilitating disease. What a great way to give your and support a friend.
ReplyDeleteValerie
Everyday Inspired
What a beautiful lady, and a beautiful cause! It's wonderful to see so many supporters behind her I'm sure. And you all raised so much! That's wonderful!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to help others and show your support! I like how her mom went on the walk even though the walk is a challenge for her.
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