Annual Walk for ALS in Kamloops raises more than $19K

Jun 16, 2018 | 11:31 AM

KAMLOOPS — It was a slightly smaller crowd than normal at this morning’s Walk for ALS in Kamloops – but there was plenty of positive energy among participants. 

Walk coordinator Pat Tomlinson says spirits were high during the 9th annual event. 

“There’s dancing, people are smiling,” Tomlinson said. “People come to this walk and maybe haven’t seen each other since the walk last year. There’s just this feeling that this is a big family gathering. I was surprised actually when I was told that our numbers were a bit lower this year. It feels like a big crowd.” 

This year’s walk raised more than $19,000 and the ALS Society of B.C. will continue to accept donations for the event until September. 

“Our goal was set this year for about $40,000. We haven’t hit that yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen,” Tomlinson said. “I’m always very positive, and I’ve been surprised with how much money comes in after the walk.” 

Tomlinson says 60 per cent of the money raised in BC will stay in this province. 

The money goes toward ALS research, and providing much-needed equipment to patients and their families.