Walk to Defeat ALS

ALS walkers along Portland's waterfront

Portland, September 25th. Despite the rain, the Walk to Defeat ALS(R) had over 4,000 participants joining forces to raise money. On Portland’s waterfront, supporters came to help fight ALS. The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter raised an estimated $447,000 with the walk.

Advocates included KGW-TV anchor Laural Porter and Senator Ron Wyden

Laural Porter with KGW was the Event Emcee, with guests Senator Ron Wyden, Rep. Tobias Read, and Executive Director for the Chapter, Lance Christian, LMSW

Ran’s Fans, in green shirts, was a team formed in honor of Randy Cadonau. According to organizers, the Cadonau Family own and operate Alpenrose Dairy and are huge advocates for the fight against ALS

The event provides much needed awareness and funding for local services to families living with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and support for nationwide advocacy efforts and international research efforts.

Arne's Warriors, in honor of Arnold Gray. Arne is retired from Stewart Sokol and Gray, LLC as a well-known, construction lawyer. is team has fundraised over $67,000 and counting

The ALS Association’s Oregon & SW Washington Chapter was founded in 2002 to serve the needs of those living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and their caregivers. ALSA covers all the bases — research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy — in providing help and hope to those facing the disease.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.