ALS Association to host SuperHero Run/Walk

The ALS Association, MN/ND/SD Chapter will hold its SuperHero 5k/10k Dash on Saturday, October 13th at Phalen Regional Park (Lake Phalen) in Saint Paul.

Registration for the dash will begin at 9 a.m., with the run/walk scheduled to start at 10 a.m. Participants will enjoy a picturesque run/walk on certified 5k and 10k courses around Lake Phalen. Awards will be given to the first place winners in various age categories for both men and women in the 5k and 10k runs.

Participants are invited to dress up and run in the attire of their favorite superhero. Early bird registration is in effect through October 1st with a discounted fee of $25 for the 5k and $30 for the 10k. The entry fees will increase after October 1st, for more information check out our website at www.alssuperherodash.com. Participants are encouraged to raise funds in addition to the entry fee as all proceeds will benefit the efforts of The ALS Association, Minnesota/North Dakota/South Dakota Chapter.

In 1939, baseball great Lou Gehrig abruptly retired from baseball and forever changed the fight against ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). His diagnosis brought national and international recognition to the disease.

ALS, more commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system that is defined by the death of the motor neurons. It results in a gradual and progressive decay of voluntary muscles, often leading to total paralysis. Devastatingly, the prognosis of one with ALS is commonly grim. The life expectancy of an ALS patient is frequently two to five years after diagnosis. Although a cause and cure for ALS does not exist, advances in medical technology and contributions from supporters allow those suffering to lead more productive lives.

Additionally, advocates' efforts are donated to cutting-edge research initiatives.

The ALS Association, MN/ND/SD Chapter strives to empower those with Lou Gehrig's Disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support. Through donations and fundraisers, it contributes to the fight to treat and cure the disease through research and advocacy. Approximately 400 individuals live with ALS in Minnesota and

30,000 people nationwide. Each week, two Minnesotans are diagnosed with ALS and two succumb to the disease.

The run/walk joins the company of several successful fundraising events put on by the Chapter. From The Walk to Defeat ALS, to the Kolar Toyota ALS Walleye Tournament, Dinner of Champions, Black Woods Blizzard Tour and Larry Sing Golf Classic, The ALS Association strives to find a cause and cure for ALS. In addition to research initiatives, the funds raised contribute to programs and services. For instance, the Hrbek-Sing Communication and Assistive Device Program gives a voice to those who have lost the ability to verbally communicate due to ALS. It allows individuals to borrow augmentative communication devices that are not covered by medical insurance.

For further information on the event or to register, visit the website at www.alsmn.org, call the Chapter office at

(888) 672-0484 or email Special Events Coordinator Kristina Hedberg at kristina@alsmn.org.

Tags: news, updates, als