July 2, 2013

The Alouettes to help tackle ALS

MontrealAlouettes.com

MONTREAL – The Alouettes are pleased to announce that they will be part of the team this season to help tackle ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Former Alouettes player and broadcaster Tony Proudfoot lost his fight to the incurable disease in 2010, a fight highlighted by the same strength, dignity and determination he showcased as a player with the Alouettes from 1971 to 1979. His legacy lives on however, as The Tony Proudfoot Fund continues to fund cutting edge research and to support families living with ALS.

The Montreal Alouettes together with the Alouettes Alumni will support The Tony Proudfoot Fund via the ALS Society of Quebec by raising awareness throughout the season and by being part of “Team Proudfoot” at the annual Walk for ALS on August 25.

“Our Annual Walk for ALS is an opportunity to increase public awareness about ALS and to raise funds for much needed research into the cause of and cure for ALS as well as providing support to those with this fatal disease,” said Claudine Cook, Executive Director of the ALS Society of Quebec. “We truly appreciate the Montreal Alouettes’ support as they play an integral role in continuing Tony Proudfoot’s mission to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved.”

The Alouettes and Team Proudfoot encourages Quebecers to partake in the fight for ALS, whether by participating in the Walk, by creating an event, by volunteering, or by making a donation to the cause. These crucial actions will ensure we collectively work towards improving living conditions for those affected and ultimately, a cure.

About ALS
Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS is a terminal disease characterized by progressive paralysis of muscles throughout the body. Ninety percent of ALS patients die within five years of diagnosis and some in less than one. An estimated 3,000 Canadians have the disease, yet there are currently no effective treatment options. ALS is caused by death of motor neurons, which connect the brain to the muscles. While the specific cause remains unknown, promising discoveries in recent years have provided significant clues that should pave the way for new therapies and an eventual cure.

About the ALS Society of Quebec
The ALS Society of Quebec is a non-profit community organization whose mission is dedicated to the improves the lives of people touched by ALS and the support of their family members. Promoting and subsidizing research on the causes, treatment, and cure of ALS are also integral parts of the mission of the Society, which survives on donations and on proceeds from various fundraising events. To view the calendar of events, visit www.sla-quebec.ca.

About The Tony Proudfoot Fund:
The Tony Proudfoot Fund continues to support young neuroscientists at the masters, doctoral and postdoctoral level wishing to undertake research projects that specifically focus on ALS at The Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital. It also supports the ALS Society of Quebec’ mission to improve the living conditions for people living with ALS and provides support for their family members through programs across the province. To date, $764,000 has been raised.

Walk for ALS in Montreal:
When: Sunday, August 25, 2013
Where: Parc Maisonneuve at 11:00 am (registration begins at 9:30 am)

Join Team Proudfoot or create a team at: www.sla-quebec.ca.