Hundreds Walk To Raise Money For A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's Disease)

8/12/2012 (Updated 10:41:29 PM)

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," It affects nerve cells in both the brain and the spinal cord. On Sunday hundreds of people put on their walking shoes to raise money for research to help fight this deadly disease. 

For Vestal resident Norman French the walk to defeat ALS commonly known as Lou Gehrigs disease hits close to home.  He has been battling the illness since 2008.

"It's a terrible disease and we need all the help we can get to find treatments for it.  Right now there's no treatment and no cure for it."

French was the honorary walker in the the ASL Association annual walk for a cure on Sunday in Otsiningo Park.  He was joined by 500 other people to raise money for research and patient care.

"It's nice to know you got that many people supporting you.  It means a lot."

Also in the crowd was Nancy Amell who walked with a group to remember her husband Steve, who died this past March of ALS.

"He was very strong and courageous throughout this whole process of ALS, never complained, just a very special guy."

"It's a tight-knit group and it's good to give that support to everyone." said Tim Paske, a friend of an ALS victim.

And the event was fun for young kids too.

"I like the course.  It's bumpy.  My sister and I fell in the mud once or twice." said John from Barre, PA.

Even though John finished the walk first, it was not a race.

"It's more about camaraderie, supporting each other. This is just a dynamic group supporting us. Not just family to patient, but family to family." said Kathy Lahey, Executive Director.

Officials say they expect to raise $75,000 dollars, which is more than last year.  So crossing the finish line could mean that we are one step closer to finding a cure. 

In Otsiningo Park, Samantha McDonald, Fox 40 News.








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