PHILADELPHIA: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a very rare terminal disease with about 5000 patients diagnosed every year in the US. It affects the patient’s nervous system, weakening muscle tissue and impacting physical function and mobility.

Every month, the ALS association hosts the ‘Walk to Defeat ALS’ in hopes of raising awareness and funds to help support those affected by the disease, and hopefully one day find a cure. 

The walk is relatively popular, averaging around 500-10,000 participants. Each walk has specific ‘teams’ you can join or donate to, that are formed to support a person who has the disease.  

This year on November 18th, the “Walk to Defeat ALS” will be held at Citizens Bank Park. Everyone is welcome to join and if you are interested check-in begins at 9:00 AM, and the walk starts at 10:00 AM.

There are many ways that you can help:

• If you are unable to attend the walk you can donate here. You can donate to specific participants, teams, or the association. 
• If you want to volunteer there are many different aspects of the walk that you can help with. From clean up to set up, find the job that suits you. Make sure to fill out this survey, so that you can be registered for volunteer work in this event. 

Participating in community service is one of the most effective ways to enhance your well-being and offer hope for a better tomorrow. Such opportunities don’t come by often, so everyone who is interested should take part take. Having an opportunity like this appear isn’t a common occurrence, and everyone interested should participate. Let’s all come together and work towards a brighter future for all.