Neighbor News
Team Hope Walk in San Diego Raises $55,000 for Huntington's Disease Research and Support Services
Record 450 participate at Coronado Tidelands Park; raise awareness for fatal genetic brain disorder
More than 450 San Diegan’s, including patients with the tragic Huntington’s disease (HD) along with their family and friends, participated in the fourth annual Hope Walk on April 26, raising $55,748 for the San Diego Chapter of Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA).
HD is a fatal genetic brain disorder that causes the deterioration of all mental and physical capabilities, and affects tens of thousands of Americans each year. As awareness about this debilitating disease remains low, one goal of the walk and other public events is to honor those living with HD, as well as those who are making a difference in the mission to find a cure.
This May marks the eighth year of the national HDSA committee designating the month asHuntington’s Disease Awareness Month. Leading up to May and throughout the month, volunteers throughout the country work to raise awareness and stimulate donations to fund research and programs to care for those suffering from the disease.
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The turnout was a record, according to co-chairs Misty Daniels of Tierrasanta and Nan Pace of Pacific Beach who are members of the HDSA San Diego board of directors. Pace received an award for her ongoing commitment to raising awareness of the disease and driving fundraising efforts.
Sponsors of the walk included Auspex Pharmaceuticals, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Lundbeck, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sunbelt Rentals and Republic Moving & Storage.
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Proceeds from the walk at Coronado Tidelands Park will serve ongoing research and education toward finding a cure, and provide support services for those living with Huntington’s disease (HD) in the San Diego region. After completing the route, walkers and supporters enjoyed live music, raffles, food, beverages and a photo booth.
Burt Brigida, president of the San Diego chapter of HDSA, said the walk helped raise awareness of HD and additional funds for research. The funds raised also go to support work of the HDSA Center of Excellence at UCSD. There, HD patients are treated by an expert team of specialists who provide comprehensive care and address the wide range of symptoms and challenges in treating HD and caring for families affected by this hereditary disease.
