Walk N Roll for Ataxia

I thought I would use my blog to let my family, friends and followers know about an event that is happening on September 25, 2010. It is the second annual Walk 'N' Roll for Ataxia at Tri-Centennial State Park in Detroit. (1900 Atwater between Orleans and St. Aubin).

Ataxia is a lack of muscle coordination which may affect speech, eye movements, the ability to swallow, walking, picking up objects and other voluntary movements. Coordination affects both arms and legs. Walking becomes difficult. A wheelchair often becomes necessary as the Ataxia progresses.

Walk 'N' Roll for ataxia is a fundraising event and all proceeds will benefit the National Ataxia Foundation. The National Ataxia Foundation's website says, "The goal of IAAD is for every individual to participate in some activity, creating awareness about ataxia. You could share something you know about ataxia with one other person who has never heard of it, educate a group of people by speaking at a school or civic group, contact the media, or raise financial support. International Ataxia Awareness Day has grown over the years, and more ideas keep coming in."

Until I personally met someone with Ataxia, I had never heard of it. Of course, we've all known about muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis. These disorders get a lot of funding and research, yet ataxia research is neglected and left far behind. However, the disorder is just as serious. So that is why it is important for people to be made aware of this brain disease of the cerebellum.

So, on September 25 the Detroit Area Ataxia Support Group will be meeting at Tri-Centennial State Park for the second annual event. There will be a raffle, a walk around the park, face painting and a picnic.
How can you help?

1. Make a donation
2. Walk with the support group ($15.00 registration fee)
   
3. Tell a friend about this organization
4. Solicit a company as a sponsor
5. Become a member of the National Ataxia Foundation.

I have made up some inspirational and motivational posters to sell at the event and 1/2 of the proceeds from the sale of the posters will go to benefit the National Ataxia Foundation.



If you would like more information, please contact Tanya Tunstull at tinyt48221@yahoo.com