Residents from across the West Kootenay and Boundary are being called to Gyro Park in Trail this Saturday, June 14, to take part in the 2025 West Kootenay-Boundary Move to Cure ALS Walk.
The event marks a significant expansion, welcoming participants from more than 15 communities in a united effort to raise awareness and funds to combat Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
This is the first time the local walk has officially invited the broader region to join, offering a sense of connection and support for individuals and families affected by the disease.
Organizers emphasize that no one walks alone.
The Move to Cure ALS is the ALS Society of British Columbia’s annual signature fundraiser, held across the province throughout June, which is ALS Awareness Month in Canada.
Proceeds from the walk stay in B.C. to fund patient services and support research of the disease, including the development of a world-class ALS Centre at the University of British Columbia.
Co-organizer Helen Bobbitt noted that beyond fundraising, the walk plays a vital role in education.
“Our goal is to raise awareness about ALS and the signs and symptoms,” she said. “Diagnosis often comes after a process of elimination. That can mean a delayed timeline, which is heartbreaking when time is so critical for those waiting.”
Trail will also host other events on Saturday, including a car show and the incrEDIBLE Farmers Market.
Bobbitt hopes the busy atmosphere encourages more people to attend and engage.
In addition to the walk, the day will feature live music, guest speakers, face painting, a barbecue, and an in-person Ice Bucket Challenge.
Donors will be entered into a prize draw.
Registration runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon, with stage performances starting at 10:45 a.m.
The walk begins at 12:30 p.m. and the event wraps up at 3:30 p.m.
Organizers are encouraging participants to bring chairs, tents with proper weights for safety, towels and a change of clothes if they plan to take part in the Ice Bucket Challenge.
The walk holds deep personal meaning for participants like Wendy Marten of Fruitvale, who is walking in support of her son, Lee, and others facing an ALS diagnosis.
“This diagnosis has had a huge impact on not only Lee, but our entire family,” she said. “It’s important not to let the disease define us or take away our joy. I’d like people to know they are not alone.”
Marten also praised the ALS Society of BC for the support it provides.
“They’re an amazing resource. I lean on family and friends a lot, but having that wider support is critical," she added.
"You never know when this disease might affect someone you love.”
Organizers encourage the public to check the event’s Facebook page, 2025 West Kootenay-Boundary ALS BC Move to Cure ALS Walk, for updates, the event schedule, and prize draw details.
Donations and registrations can be made online through the ALS Society of BC.
About ALS and ALS BC
Founded in 1981 by Dr. Andrew Eisen alongside ALS patients and families, the ALS Society of British Columbia aims to cure ALS through research funding while supporting those affected.
The society’s Project Hope campaign raised $5.3 million between 2019 and 2021 to establish an ALS Research Professorship at UBC, integrating clinical care and research. The current goal is to raise $20 million.
ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that attacks motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness.
Most patients are immobilized within two to five years of diagnosis.
There is no cure yet, but there is hope.
