WNY rallies for Walk to Defeat ALS

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – The ALS community was brought together at Ontario Beach Park to for a community walk and fundraiser in support of fighting ALS.

Walk to Defeat ALS is an event designed to honor family members, friends, caregiver, and others impacted by ALS. Despite there not being a known cure for the disease, WNY is ‘rallying together to do whatever it takes to change that.’

ALS, often called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive motor neuron disease that gradually takes individuals ability to walk, talk, swallow and eventually breathe.

This year’s walk also featured an Ice Bucket Challenge station, giving people the opportunity to donate and take a cold plunge for the 10th anniversary of the challenge.

Sasha Kourbotova, this year’s Rochester Walk Ambassador, spoke of her experience living with ALS and how the ALS Association has supported her and her family.

“Sasha’s strength in dealing with ALS, alongside her family’s support, is genuinely inspiring. Her journey reflects a deep resilience that will be evident when she speaks at the walk. Her words, filled with compassion and courage, will resonate with everyone and highlight the remarkable way she and her family handle each day with grace and strength,” WNY Care Service Coordinator Laura Pelow said.

Last year’s event raised more than $175,000 with nearly 520 total walkers. All of today’s participants who raised over $100 also received a commemorative t-shirt.

Event registration began at 9:30 a.m. before kicking off the walk at 11:00 a.m.

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