Community members make strides in the fight against ALS

ROANOKE COUNTY (WSLS 10) -  Dozens pounded the pavement at Hollins University to make a difference in the fight against ALS.

Congressman Bob Goodlatte served as the honorary chair at the Walk to Defeat ALS.

ALS is a deadly disease, impacting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

The goal of the walk is to raise money for research to find treatments and a cure. It is also a chance to honor those who have died from ALS and bring hope to those battling it.

"It was just such a powerful moment to see them all come together, emotional at times, empowering at others," Andrea Kephart, ALS Association's senior event manager said. "It really means so much everyone is here supporting us and we're here supporting them, too."

According to the ALS Association, the life expectancy of someone with ALS is two to five years.  For unknown reasons, veterans are twice as likely to develop ALS.

Currently there is no cure.