There is no easy way to hear the words “You have ALS”. There is no cure for Lou Gehrig’s disease, but families say the ALS Association helps them cope with the diagnosis.
“Just the support they provide, with some of the services; we’ve been able to take advantage of the respite grant, which is huge for us,” explains Amy Kubiak.
Her husband Glen was diagnosed with ALS in 2012.
“There’s lots and lots of needs you have as the disease progresses, so it’s just been wonderful. Just the support of bringing people together and being with people who know what you’re going through.”
One of the ways the ALS Association brings people together is through fundraising walks. There’s a walk in downtown St. Petersburg on Saturday, March 5 and one in Sarasota on Saturday, March 19.
Wheelchair bound patients and their families participate. This year there’s a luau theme and the walks have a celebratory atmosphere.
“They start in the morning and it’s just a great way to come out and learn more about ALS if you’re interested in that and for the families to come out and celebrate,” says Todd Loomis of the ALS Association.
Amy and Glenn Kubiak will be taking part in the Sarasota walk. Glen, who now uses a wheelchair and needs assistance breathing, believes the walks are important.
“They’re critical for people; getting together and walking for a cause,” he says.
The walks raise money for both ALS research and support services for families in Florida.
10Sports Director Dave Wirth will help kick on Saturday’s walk in St. Petersburg. For more information on the walks click here.
