An Espanola woman and her son will walk in memory of a close family member who recently passed away from ALS.
Melanie Poirier says she and her son, Thomas Haarmeyer, will walk in memory of her mother Rita Poirier who died April 5th following a five-year battle with the disease.
According to ALS.ca, “ALS is a disease that gradually paralyzes people because the brain is no longer able to communicate with the muscles of the body that we are typically able to move at will.”
Melanie says it is a devastating disease that impacts the whole family by taking away every ability to take care of even your most basic needs.
She says this is the third year she will participate in the walk with people doing their own walk in their own communities due to COVID-19.
Melanie adds her mother’s care teams in Sudbury and Toronto, as well as Bayshore workers closer to home, were instrumental in her mother’s continued health until her passing, adding she can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for Rita, and for the family.
Anyone wishing to support her efforts by making a pledge is asked to visit the link below.
For general information about ALS and the fundraiser, visit https://walktoendals.ca/participate-or-donate/ontario/