Trending
WELLSBURG -- A local group formed to raise funds and awareness of people with multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases has added a new event -- a 5K run-walk to be held Saturday in Wellsburg.
Registration will begin at 8 a.m., with the event set to start at 9 a.m. at the Wellsburg Town Square near Seventh Street. The cost is $10, with proceeds going to Kim's Walk for Neurological Diseases.
The walk is named for Kim Chapline-Byers, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007 but set out to help others with the disease and make others aware that it and other neuromuscular diseases can affect people of various ages and in different ways.
She has been aided by her family and friends and community members and businesses.
Last year's walk and other fundraisers raised about $6,500 for three local residents with neurological diseases -- Doug Bennington of Mingo Junction, Cathy Martindill of Wellsburg and Mary Scott of Toronto -- and funded a scholarship awarded to Kayli Thorfinnson, a recent Brooke High School graduate.
The group's scholarships go to local youth who have been affected by a neurological disease or plan to pursue a career related to such diseases.
This year Levi and Jake Byers, Kim's twin sons, came up with the idea to hold the run-walk, noting the popularity of such events.
"We thought it would help to raise more awareness and help more people," said Levi, who noted the group will continue to hold the fall indoor walk that has drawn local residents with MS and other diseases as well as supporters.
The walk is slated for Nov. 5, with details to be announced.
Levi said he and his brother sought input from Cecil Toner, Della Serevicz and others who have been involved with local run-walks while planning the new event.
He said trophies will be awarded to overall male and female winners, and medals will go to the top male and female finishers in several age groups.
Registration forms can be obtained in advance at Healthsource Chiropractic in Wellsburg, where Levi works. The chiropractic practice is among about a dozen area businesses contributing money or materials for the walk.
This summer the group received a boost from the Crooked Dock, which hosted a fundraising concert by Poor Man's Heaven.
"He does a lot for us, too," Levi said of Lester Bradley, the restaurant's owner.
The group is selling chances on a gift card tree containing about $500 in gift cards and certificates donated or purchased through efforts headed by Michelle Snyder Temple.
The drawing will be held at the Nov. 5 walk, and tickets may be purchased at Healthsource Chiropractic, Jackie's Florist and Wallflower, where the tree will be alternately displayed, and by calling (304) 551-5440.