Muscles Needed For Walk For Muscular Dystrophy

 Apr 25, 2012 Oakville Beaver

On Sunday, May 6 Halton residents will be moving their muscles to make an impact in the fight against muscular dystrophy.

The community will be joining together for the annual Halton Region Walk for Muscular Dystrophy to support more than 50,000 children, teens and adults who are affected by neuromuscular disorders in Canada.

Leading the Halton Region event will be this year’s Walk Ambassador Shanna Bernacki, of Burlington, who knows firsthand how important this community event is to families affected by muscular dystrophy. 

“It’s nice to meet other people taking part in the walk that are going through the same as me and being able to share experiences. It gives me the sense… that I’m not alone,” said Bernacki, who was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (a rare disease affecting the heart and muscles) at the age of nine. Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of progressive muscular disorders that weaken the muscles that control body movement.

These disorders can have devastating affects, resulting in the loss of most abilities we take for granted. Over time, many people with neuromuscular disorders are unable to walk, speak or even breathe. For some, the disorder is fatal.

The Walk for Muscular Dystrophy is “an opportunity for the community to come together and support those affected by neuromuscular disorders at the local level,” said Stacey Lintern, Muscular Dystrophy Canada Ontario executive director.

The walk is a fun-filled, fully-accessible event the entire family can enjoy, regardless of fitness level.The event will include activities for kids, food and refreshments, a prize raffle and silent auction, and even a visit from local firefighters.

Proceeds from the event support various programs including funding equipment and support services for individuals and families faced with financial hardships, information and advocacy initiatives that highlight the needs of those living with neuromuscular disorders, and fund research to one day find a cure.All of Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s programs are made possible by donations. The organization receives less than one per cent in government funding.

Festivities will be taking place on Sunday, May 6 at Coronation Park.

Participant registration begins at 10 a.m. and the walk, wheel and roll begins at 11 a.m. To take part in the Halton Region Walk for Muscular Dystrophy or for more information, visit www.muscle.ca/walk.