Media Advisory - The Walk to Fight Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) is coming to the
GTA
Hundreds will be gathering on September 26th in Whitby to help build awareness of FA and to raise funds for FA research
WHITBY, ON,
What: The Walk to Fight Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) Why: To raise funds for research on FA and to raise public awareness of FA in Ontario. The event is associated with the Canadian Association of Familial Ataxia. When: Saturday, September 26, 2009 10:00am - 12:00pm Where: Heydenshore Park, Whitby, Ontario Map link: http://tinyurl.com/paq4vn Who: Special guests will include: Dr. Teesta Soman, Sick Kids Hospital; Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky, McMaster University Medical Centre; Pat Perkins, Mayor of Whitby. And hundreds of participants and volunteers! Pledge forms are available at: www.thewalktofightfa.com/documents/donation%20and%20shirt%20request.pdf Facebook group name: The Walk to Fight Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) About Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) ------------------------------
FA is the most frequent hereditary ataxia, with an estimated prevalence of 3-4 cases per 100,000 individuals. It is a rare but severe neurodegenerative disease characterized by spinocerebellar degeneration. This often fatal, hereditary degenerative neurological disease, primarily affects balance, coordination and speech. It can also lead to severe scoliosis, heart disease and diabetes. Once diagnosed, most patients find themselves confined to a wheelchair within 10 years. At the moment there is no treatment that can stop or cure FA. However some drugs intended to counteract the effects of this disease are presently on trial.
For further information: email [email protected] or contact Josh Mills at (416) 220-2913. Website: www.thewalktofightfa.com
Share this article