ALS Awareness Month 2012

In Canada, June is ALS Awareness Month.

ALS “ Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (commonly known as Lou Gehrigs Disease) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord affecting muscle function. ALS is characterized by progressive weakness, respiratory compromise and muscle atrophy. An ALS diagnosis can be overwhelming for both the patient and their family. Each day, two to three Canadians die from ALS.

There are many activities throughout the month of June from WALKs for ALS to online activities to help everyone get involved and help raise awareness of ALS. The month kicked off with an ALS Vigil on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on June 4th. Hundreds gathered together to light candles for loved ones and the 3000 Canadians currently living with ALS.

WALK for ALS is a fun, family friendly event that occurs across the country each year in more than 84 communities and is organized by local volunteers. The Ottawa Walk takes place on Saturday June 16th, kicking off at the Canadian War Museum. Donations raised through the Walk go toward research to find a cure for ALS, as well as providing equipment and support for those living with the disease. For more details, or to find a WALK for ALS near you, visit walkforals.ca

The City of Ottawa has declared the day of the walk, Saturday June 16th, as ALS Awareness Day.