Participants can choose from three scenic routes
and unite to raise funds for ALS research and community-based supports
HAMILTON, September 17, 2024 – On Sunday, September 22, cyclists will unite for the ALS Canada Revolution Ride in the scenic community of Dundas, Ontario. This annual event raises vital funds and awareness for the ALS Society of Canada (ALS Canada) to support people affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) through community services, advocacy, and the most promising research across Canada.
Powered by volunteers, the Revolution Ride offers 12km, 40km, and 90km routes for cyclists of all levels. Starting and ending at Shawn & Ed Brewing Co., the event features a kick-off and post-ride celebration where riders and their supporters can come together.
“Events like the ALS Canada Revolution Ride unite the ALS community, providing an opportunity to take part in a meaningful experience, honour loved ones, and work toward a world free of ALS,” says Tammy Moore, CEO of ALS Canada. “The funds raised are instrumental in providing community-based support to people affected by the disease, ensuring that someone with experience and knowledge is there with accurate information, connections to resources, and quick access to essential equipment, easing the emotional and financial burdens associated with the disease. We are deeply grateful to the volunteers, participants, and the donors for this event in helping to fuel our work.”
Last year’s top fundraiser, Matthew Horowitz, raised more than $100,000 and has returned for 2024 as a volunteer on the organizing committee. This year, his participation carries even more significance, riding in honour of his father, Michael, who passed away from ALS in May – just two and a half years after his diagnosis.
“My father’s diagnosis left me feeling helpless. Finding the ALS Canada Revolution Ride allowed me to channel my feelings into something that could have a positive impact by raising awareness and funds to support people affected by ALS,” says Matthew. “This year’s Ride will be an emotional one for our family and friends participating. I know firsthand how helpful it was to have access to resources and supports for my father and our family, and I’m committed to continuing these efforts to fund this work.”
Today, nearly 4,000 Canadians are living with ALS, a neuromuscular disease that progressively paralyzes people because the brain can no longer communicate with the muscles of the body that we can typically move at will. As a result, people with ALS often face a swift decline in the ability to talk, walk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe. There is currently no cure for the disease that carries a lifetime risk of 1 in 300 for each of us.
For those unable to join in Dundas, a virtual option is available through the Strava app. Participants can create a customizable Revolution Ride from anywhere, on any date.
Proceeds from the ALS Canada Revolution Ride go to community-based support services for people living with ALS in Ontario, provincial and federal advocacy initiatives, and investments in Canada’s most promising ALS research.
Show your support by donating to the ALS Canada Revolution Ride at https://www.revolutionride.ca/.
ALS Canada Revolution Ride Event Details:
When: Sunday, September 22, 2024
Location: Shawn & Ed Brewery Co. – 65 Hatt Street, Dundas, Ontario
Start line times:
- 8:00 a.m. for 90km cyclists
- 9:00 a.m. for 40km cyclists
- 10:00 a.m. for 12km cyclists
Who: Revolution Ride participants show support for people and families living with ALS.
Post-ride celebration: Starting at 11:30 a.m. at Shawn & Ed Brewery Co., featuring highlights, music, food, and drinks for family and friends to join the cyclists and celebrate the Ride.
About ALS and the ALS Society of Canada
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an unrelenting and currently terminal disease. It progressively 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. Over time, as the muscles of the body break down, someone living with ALS will lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe. More than 4,000 Canadians live with ALS and approximately 1,000 Canadians are diagnosed each year. Four out of five people living with ALS will die within two to five years of their diagnosis.
The ALS Society of Canada is working to change what it means to live with ALS. Grounded in and informed by the Canadian ALS community, we respond to the urgent unmet need for life-changing treatments by investing in high-quality research that will fuel scientific discovery and by engaging industry, supporting increased clinical capacity, and advocating for equitable, affordable, and timely access to proven therapies.
Responding to the tremendous need for current and credible ALS knowledge, awareness, and education, we empower Canadians affected by ALS to navigate the current realities of ALS, be informed consumers of ALS information, and advocate effectively for change. In Ontario, we provide direct community services to help people navigate ALS.
Founded in 1977, we are a registered charity that receives no core government funding – our work is powered by generous donors who share our vision of a world free of ALS.
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Join the conversation and connect with the ALS community online. Find ALS Canada on X, Instagram, or like our page on Facebook. Visit als.ca to find out more.
For more information
ALS Society of Canada
media@als.ca
437-703-5402