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Carlyle Rocks!: Local Team to Walk for ALS

For the second year running, a team from Carlyle will 'Walk for ALS' on Saturday, Sept. 16 in Regina - “In memory of Judy Van Dresar and in support of Greg Fischer,” says Leanne Van Dresar of Carlyle.
Fundraising BBQ

            For the second year running, a team from Carlyle will 'Walk for ALS' on Saturday, Sept. 16 in Regina - “In memory of Judy Van Dresar and in support of Greg Fischer,” says Leanne Van Dresar of Carlyle.

            Judy Van Dresar - the wife of former Carlyle resident, Dale Van Dresar - recently lost her battle with ALS in Grande Prairie, Alberta. Greg Fischer of Carlyle is currently living with ALS.

            According to the ALS Society of Canada: “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also known as ALS, Lou Gehrig's disease, or motor neuron disease) is a disease that gradually paralyzes people because the brain is no longer able to communicate with the muscles of the body that we are typically able to move at will. Over time, as the muscles of the body break down, someone living with ALS will lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe.”

            “ALS is not contagious. There are no effective treatments for ALS and no cure. Approximately 80 per cent of people with ALS die within two to five years of being diagnosed.”

            “It's a horrible disease,” says Leanne. “But we're so grateful for the support of everyone who has come out today, donated or pledged our team – called Carlyle Rocks!- for the Walk For ALS, September 16 in Regina.”

            Local fundraising efforts started early with a brisket barbeque on Carlyle's Main Street on Friday, July 14 and at press time, donations had already reached the $1,000 mark.

            To donate, visit http://walkforals.ca/find-a-walk/saskatchewan/ and search for CarlyleRocks! or contact Leanne Van Dresar in Carlyle at (306)-577-8881. Donations $20 and over are tax-deductible.