UPDATE: for more information about the walk, please email Melissa Ferguson at lil_fergy_333@yahoo.ca and Melanie Brisson at melanieb711@gmail.com.
CORNWALL, Ontario – The WALK for ALS will be happening on June 2 this year, starting at St. Lawrence College at 9:30 a.m. Mark Vivarais, 61, was diagnosed with ALS in December of 2017 and is this year’s WALK for ALS ambassador.
Mark was really inspired to take on an advocating role for the disease after meeting the husband of a 29-year-old Ottawa woman who was recently diagnosed with ALS. So when ALS Canada contacted Mark about the walk, he quickly agreed to be the local face for this year’s fundraiser.
“Even though I have it, I think it hurt me more knowing that young girl has it,” said Mark.
Mark is greatly supported by his wife of over 40 years, Sandra Vivarais, and his entire family. All five of his grandchildren will be attending the walk, including Keaten Ayotte, 3, who helps Mark with everything he can.
According to Sandra, ALS Canada has been very supportive in providing equipment and services to help with the disease. But she understands that accommodating people with ALS can become a heavy financial burden.
“If they need different equipment for all the stages of the disease, it becomes really costly,” said Sandra. “That’s why ALS Canada is so important.”
The Vivarais’ are hoping to surpass last year’s donations and raise $35,000. They are eternally grateful for all the support and donations they’ve received so far.
“You know what I wish people would do?” said Mark. “Just take their time and say ‘why a cup of coffee this morning? Why not put it towards someone that could really use it?’”
To donate online, go to www.walkforals.ca/cornwall or www.alsevents.ca/TEAMVivarais.
