The event aims to raise awareness and funds for a rare and debilitating condition impacting thousands of families across the country. Photo Credit: Walk to End ALS Ontario.
On Saturday, June 1, hundreds of Niagara residents will come together at the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre Lock 3 to embark on a five kilometer walk to end Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The event, which has been held annually for thirteen years, aims to raise awareness and funds for a rare and debilitating condition impacting thousands of families across the country.
Melissa Van Tuyl currently serves as the community lead for the ALS Society of Canada. In this role, Van Tuyl helps ALS patients and their loved ones access the support they need, as well as organizing the Walk to End ALS for local jurisdictions.
“I’ve been doing the walk for seven years now,” Van Tuyl shared in a recent sit-down with The Niagara Independent. “There are 22 in-person walks across Canada, and we are proud to be one of them.”
In addition to the live walk, there is also a virtual event held for those who are unable to take part with their community chapter or favour independent participation.
“The goal this year across Ontario is to raise $1.9 million for ALS research, treatment and patient support,” Van Tuyl explained. “In Niagara, our goal was $115,000, which we have already met,” she continued. “It feels great to have already achieved that milestone marker before the walk even takes place.”
Sixty per cent of all funds raised go directly into community services. The remaining 40 per cent is dedicated to Canadian-based research.
Van Tuyl also took some time to reflect on the preparations and background work that commence months before the event is held each year.
“Our fundraising page goes live on January 1st,” she said. “We work closely with our Niagara families, as well as our fundraising department, which is located in the head office in Toronto,” she added.
“At the end of the day, we attempt to keep the cost of the event itself really low, as much as possible, so that we can put money back into the actual cause. With that in mind, we are so grateful to Tim Hortons, who is donating all of our water and juice for this year’s walk.”
Van Tuyl concluded by reflecting on what will make this year’s event a success.
“Unfortunately, this disease impacts too many people, including families in our area, and it can be a really isolating experience,” she shared. “This event provides an opportunity for people to connect, enjoy what looks like a beautiful day, and to know they are not alone.”
Those who are interested in donating to the 2024 Walk to End ALS in Niagara can do so at the following link: Niagara Region: Walk To End ALS
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
