Local residents stride to end ALS at Sherwood Island State Park

Natasha Taubenheim '22

Local residents walk to the start of the Walk to Defeat ALS on Saturday, Oct. 19.

Crowds of purple bundled up on a crisp, fall morning, while cheerleaders motivated the attendees who waited patiently for the signal that would start the walk. Participants from all around Fairfield County came out to support finding a cure for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), their faces filled with hope and grief from the remembrance of their loved ones. 

On Saturday, Oct. 19, families and individuals participated in the Walk to Defeat ALS at Sherwood Island State Park. The attendees walked three miles to raise money for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a chronic disease that breaks down nerve cells and causes muscle weakness. While it is rare and the cause is unknown, there is currently no cure. Annually, nearly 20,000 people in America suffer from this debilitating disease.

“I have heard about this walk from family members, and I think it is both a respectful and smart way to raise money for the families in need,” Aaron Cheung ’22 said.

The ALS Association has been striving to find a cure for the disease and support families for the past 35 years. Their mission is to discover treatments and a cure for ALS, to serve, advocate for and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest. 

The organization focuses on providing funding for research, treatment, care services and public policy. To date, the association has raised $209,582 which has helped 370 families in Connecticut. 

Last weekend, Westport residents Erin Hines and her husband took part in the Walk to Defeat ALS. 

“My godmother was diagnosed with ALS six years ago and ever since we have been walking in her honor,” Hines said. 

The Walk to Defeat ALS is a way to raise money, provide care services, give medical support and make it possible to afford to conduct research. The event is all in an effort to find a cure for the disease that ultimately affects many throughout the world.