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Thanks for help in fight against ALS

Approximately 1,000 people in Illinois have ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease or motor neuron disease, and about 250 more are diagnosed each year. The disease may seem relatively rare, but we find many people know someone who has been affected by it.

At the Les Turner ALS Foundation, we are working toward the day when no one is affected by this disease. We are dedicated to treating and eliminating ALS through research, patient services, education and advocacy.

During National ALS Awareness Month in May, hundreds of Les Turner ALS Foundation volunteers participated in Tag Days drives, collecting donations and raising ALS awareness. We are deeply appreciative to all the local Tag Days captains and of the people who supported the cause. Tag Days drives were held in 29 communities and volunteers collected nearly $80,000.

ALS causes motor neurons to stop working and die. The result is loss of voluntary movement and muscle functions such as speaking, swallowing and breathing. Though treatment of symptoms often improves quality of life, there is no cure for ALS. Founded in 1977, the Les Turner ALS Foundation serves more than 90 percent of the ALS population in the Chicago area. To those who donated through Tag Days and to those who served as the manpower behind this effort, thank you. Your support allows us to continue providing help and hope to people with Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Wendy Abrams

Executive director

Les Turner ALS Foundation

Skokie

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