Knoxville Hosts Annual Walk to Defeat ALS Promoting Community Support and Awareness

Knoxville Residents Come Together for the Walk to Defeat ALS

Knoxville is gearing up for the annual Walk to Defeat ALS, set to take place on September 28 at Victor Ashe Park. This community-driven event is aimed at raising both awareness and funds to support individuals living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

The Origins of the Walk

The walk was first initiated by Carianne “Cari” Meystrik back in 2010. Since then, she has participated every year, rallying her community to join her in the fight against this challenging disease. Cari founded a team called Carianne’s Committed Cure-seeking Cavalcade, which usually consists of between 60 and 80 people. Clad in lime green outfits to echo her power wheelchair, team members walk together every year to show their support and commitment to finding a cure.

A Shared Experience

For Cari, the walk symbolizes a special gathering. “People who have ALS and their families share such an instant and intimate bond that it’s like gathering with family,” she explained. This event is crucial for both honoring those who have succumbed to the disease and uplifting those currently battling it.

“It’s a pretty special group of people,” Cari said, “to celebrate surviving and remember those who have passed and be hopeful about the future.” Her husband, Chris Meystrik, added that the event also serves as a way for Cari to express gratitude to the individuals who support her throughout the year.

Personal Journey with ALS

Cari was diagnosed with ALS in 1998 at a time when she had three young children. “It was pretty devastating knowing I wouldn’t get to see them grow up,” she shared. With an expected life span of only two to five years, she decided to homeschool her children to maximize her time with them. “It’s always been a team effort,” Cari said, reflecting on how her children have helped her throughout her journey.

Despite the challenges she faces, Cari remains hopeful and optimistic. “It’s a privilege still being here,” she said, while also sharing the burden of survivor’s guilt that often accompanies living longer than expected.

Importance of Community Support

The walk not only raises funds crucial for ALS research; it also helps in providing direct support to individuals coping with the disease. The costs to manage ALS can run around $200,000 a year, which includes healthcare, medical equipment, and caregiver expenses. Cari emphasizes that part of the funds raised go back into community support services that patients urgently require.

Throughout the years, participation levels have fluctuated. The ice bucket challenge of ten years ago brought a significant increase in numbers, but attendance has decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cari remains hopeful for a resurgence in participation.

Ways to Get Involved

If you’re inspired to join the cause, Cari encourages everyone to educate themselves about ALS: “I would challenge everyone who reads your article, if they don’t know what those three letters mean: Google it.” Whether you have personal ties to ALS or not, there are numerous ways to contribute, such as volunteering time or services, offering meals, or helping with household chores for individuals affected by the disease.

It’s important to approach support with a proactive mindset. “Call me if you need anything” is not an effective approach, Chris suggested. Instead, be specific and tangible in your offers of help.

Join the Walk

The upcoming Walk to Defeat ALS will take place at 11 a.m. on September 28 at Victor Ashe Park. Individuals interested in registering can do so on the ALS Association website. This event not only fosters community spirit but also acts as a crucial fundraising opportunity to support the ongoing fight against ALS.

For more information on local support groups, including those hosted at the Meystrik household, interested individuals can find Cari Meystrik on social media.