2013 MDA Muscle Walk Hits Stride With Over 800 Mall Walkers

Clackamas, January 26^th, 2013.  The Muscular Dystrophy Association was off to a running start as supporters raised $62,000 during an annual walk, $20,000 more than in 2012. Organizer Colleen King-Showalter explained, “The walk is a true show of strength for our client families and they come out in force. It is great to see everyone “making a muscle” and walking for the cause.”

It was the second year this winter event took place inside the nice dry Clackamas Town Center. Sponsor booths featured giveaways, raffles, top team recognition and a DJ with live music to pump things up. Macy’s was the title sponsor for the second time.

From MDA:

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. With national headquarters in Tucson, MDA has more than 200 local offices across the country, sponsors some 200 medical clinics and supports more than 300 research projects around the world.

MDA is the nation’s largest nongovernmental funder of scientific research seeking better treatments and cures for the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases in its program. MDA has funded the discovery of the genetic underpinnings of almost all diseases in its program — including the muscular dystrophies, spinal muscular atrophy, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease) and several other neuromuscular diseases — and treatments based on this knowledge are being developed, with support from MDA.

The Association’s comprehensive services program includes diagnostic and follow-up medical consultations, flu shots, support groups, MDA summer camps for youngsters, a national medical equipment program, assistance with equipment repairs and modifications, and resource referrals.

Through its national advocacy program, MDA works to make life better for people with muscular dystrophy and related muscle diseases by providing representation in matters of public policy and research advancement, nationally and internationally; and facilitating active involvement in these areas by the people it serves.