Thanks to all who helped with ALS benefit

On behalf of the Les Turner ALS Foundation, I want to thank everyone who supported the 14th Annual ALS Walk for Life on Sept. 27. Nearly 7,000 people helped us raise more than $900,000, and we are on track to raise $1 million by the end of the year.

The ongoing success of the ALS Walk for Life has allowed the Les Turner ALS Foundation to continually expand its programs. For example, last year we added 12 support group meetings, opened a third research laboratory and pledged $10 million to establish the Les Turner ALS Research and Patient Center at Northwestern Medicine.

As the Foundation's executive director, I am inspired by people with ALS who have a unique appreciation for the things that matter, and by their loved ones who help them live with strength and determination.

ALS is a terminal neuromuscular disease that attacks a person's muscles, gradually robbing them of their ability to walk, speak, eat and eventually breathe, yet usually keeping their mind intact. Every 90 minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes, someone with ALS dies. There is no prevention or cure.

Founded in 1977, the Les Turner ALS Foundation is Chicago's leader in research, patient care and education about ALS, serving nearly 90 percent of people with ALS in the area.

To those who donated and to those who joined us at the ALS Walk for Life, thank you. Your support helps keep hope alive.

Andrea Pauls Backman,

Executive Director

Les Turner ALS Foundation

Skokie