Knoxville Community Gears Up for Walk to Defeat ALS
Knoxville is preparing for a heartfelt event that aims to raise awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The Walk to Defeat ALS will take place on September 28 at 11 a.m. at Victor Ashe Park. This yearly event brings together families, caregivers, and supporters to stand in solidarity with those affected by this progressive disease.
Cari Meystrik: A Beacon of Hope for ALS Awareness
Cari Meystrik, often referred to as Cari by those close to her, has been a driving force behind the Knoxville Walk to Defeat ALS since its inception in 2010. She has participated in the event every year, bringing her team, Carianne’s Committed Cure-seeking Cavalcade, consisting of 60 to 80 walkers, who proudly wear lime green to match Cari’s power wheelchair. “It’s almost like sacred ground,” Cari expressed as she talked about the unique bonds formed during the walk. “You’re there with people who have lost loved ones, you’re there with people currently living the same journey.” Her team not only raises funds but also creates a space for shared experiences and mutual support among families dealing with the challenges of ALS.
Understanding ALS
ALS is a debilitating condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. According to the ALS Association, it gradually robs individuals of the ability to walk, talk, and ultimately breathe. Currently, there is no cure. Cari Meystrik herself was diagnosed with ALS in 1998, when her children were very young. “It was pretty devastating knowing I wouldn’t get to see them grow up,” she recalled. Cari decided to homeschool her children to spend as much time with them as possible, emphasizing the importance of family throughout her journey.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
The funds raised from the walk are dedicated not only to research for a cure but also to provide necessary services for those living with ALS. On average, it costs about $200,000 per year for patients to cover healthcare, equipment, and caregivers. Cari highlighted the significance of these funds, stating, “Part of the funds that are raised for the walk are directed back into the community for patient care services, which is every bit as necessary as research.” Through her advocacy work, Cari has seen firsthand how vital these resources are for families struggling with ALS.
Getting Involved
Although attendance at the walk has fluctuated over the years, Cari remains hopeful that the community will come together again to support this important cause. “Ten years ago, the ice bucket challenge brought out a record number of walkers,” she noted. However, since the pandemic, participation has decreased. “I hope it will grow again,” she mentioned, emphasizing the need for community engagement.
Beyond the walk itself, Cari encourages everyone in the community to learn more about ALS and consider how they can help those affected by the disease. “I would challenge everyone…if they don’t know what those three letters mean, Google it,” she said. She also shared that small acts can make a big difference, suggesting people offer specific help, like, “I’d love to bring a meal or help with yard work.” Noting that sometimes, it can be challenging to ask for help, Cari said it’s crucial to accept support from others.
A Message of Hope
Despite the challenges she faces, Cari Meystrik holds on to hope. “There’s a lot of survivor’s guilt,” she said, recognizing the loss of many friends along the way. “Every person is different. I always tell people it’s just a number,” she added, advocating for the idea of living life fully and seizing the day. “Don’t live like you’re dying, just do as much as you can while you can.” This optimistic outlook is what Cari hopes to share through her walk and advocacy efforts.
Final Details
For those interested in joining the Knoxville Walk to Defeat ALS, registration is available on the ALS Association website. Participation in the walk is a meaningful way to show support for individuals living with ALS and their families, as well as contribute to crucial research efforts. If you or someone you know is affected by ALS, there is a support group that meets at Cari’s home for those seeking understanding and help navigating this difficult journey.
The community is invited to come together on September 28 to walk, support, and honor the resilience of those living with ALS.
