Walk to Defeat ALS, Raising awareness about Lou Gehrigs Disease [Video]

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – “Unlock ALS,” was the message at the walk to defeat ALS Roanoke on the morning of September 14.

Formally known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS is a neurological disorder that affects motor neurons, which are nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement.

On Saturday, dozens showed up to show support and walked to raise awareness for the disease.Mark Kary, who is an ALS survivor, says these events are an opportunity to bring the ALS community together, including family of those who are diagnosed.

(Photo Credit: Dustin Hennessey)

‘Walk to End Poverty’ in the scenic Smith Mountain Lake

“It really hits me in the heart. It’s just so nice to see the community support. Because, while ALS may affect one person in a family, it is a familial disease, in that it totally changes the economics and the dynamics of a family.” – Mark Kary

Mark also …