FLOWOOD, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
About 200 people showed up to Winners Circle Park in Flowood Saturday for a "Walk to Defeat ALS (Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Along with about 18 different teams, there are also six "pals", or people suffering from ALS.
One of them is 51 year old Joe Kirby. He was surrounded by family and friends, calling themselves Kirby's Crusaders.
"He was diagnosed in 2005 with PLS, we believe has turned to ALS. From what I've understood, PLS can turn to ALS, ALS to PLS," says family member Christy Hughes.
In Primary Lateral Sclerosis, or PLS, there is no muscle atrophy, and it is not life threatening.
"He just takes his medication, goes to see Dr. Fredericks every couple months," Hughes says.
The funds raised at the walk will go toward finding a cure and improving the lives of those who suffer from ALS. The ALS Association also helps the families that bear the financial and emotional burden of caring for someone stricken with the disease.
Organizers say turnout this year is great.
"Something we look forward to all year. We're just excited to be here, excited to be able to honor those with ALS, have a little memorial for those who have passed," says Brandi Nickles, Care Services Director.
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