6th annual ALS H.O.P.E Race set for June 3 on Isle of Palms

CHARLESTON - Each year on the Isle of Palms, people race for a cure - a cure for a neurological disease called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.

The physical therapy class of 2007 at the Medical University of South Carolina is hosting the race, and this year it will occur on Saturday, June 3, at 7 p.m. It is a 5K run/walk on the Isle of Palms. The two ALS honorees this year are Retired Brigadier General Thomas Mikolajcik of Charleston and Nancy Morgan of Pamplico.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body. As the disease progresses, the motor neurons degenerate and eventually die. As the result of the death of motor neurons, voluntary movement and control of the muscles is lost. In the later stages of the disease, patients are often paralyzed, although their minds remain unaffected.

Entry fee for the race is $20 before May 19 and $25 after. Children 12 and under can race for $8 before May 19 and $10 after. This fee includes a race number, a tee shirt and dinner. Make checks payable to PT Class of 2007 and mail to PT Class of 2007, P.O. Box 1170, Mount Pleasant, S.C. 294651170. Small donations and sponsorships are also accepted. For any questions, call Danni Moss at 864-838-1240.

All proceeds will go to the South Carolina Chapter for ALS Association. For more information, visit http://www. alshoperace.com.