Welland man starts 30-day-marathon for ALS awareness month

Brian Bower has made it his life purpose to bring awareness to ALS and today he kicks off a 30-day-marathon that will cover 150km.

Bower was diagnosed with ALS – also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease – in December of 2018. In a statement on his website, the 50-year-old says after 1.5 years of his own journey with ALS, it’s time to act on a dream of his.

Bower will be riding his mobility scooter 5km per day over the month of June on the Recreational Canal Pathway in Welland. He has a goal of raising $10,000 and has already raised over $6,000 before ALS awareness month began.

The event kicks off today at 1:00 p.m at 555 Prince Charles Drive. The Mayor of Welland, Frank Campion, will be there to say a few words prior to Bower heading out. Bower and his family ask you join him if you are able.

Bower’s dream doesn’t stop after 150km. Taking inspiration from the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope run or a Rick Hansen Man in Motion, Bower hopes to one day embark on a cross-Canada expedition raising awareness for ALS and millions in the process.

You can follow along with Bower’s journey on his Facebook page and donate to his cause.

ALS affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, a loss of motor function, paralysis, breathing problems, and, eventually, death.