Tilson Marks ALS Month in the House in Commons

OTTAWA, ON – This afternoon, on the occasion of the beginning of ALS Month in Canada, Dufferin-Caledon MP David Tilson rose in the House of Commons to mark the occasion. Mr. Tilson said:

“Mr. Speaker, June is ALS awareness month, so it is important that we take note of this terminal disease and the effect that it has on Canadians and their families.

ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, as it is more commonly known, is a rapidly progressing disease that works by killing nerves and leaving those diagnosed unable to control or initiate voluntary movements of their own bodies. Roughly 3,000 Canadians are currently suffering from this disease, with 2 or 3 dying on average each day. There are no effective cures or treatments, and the financial and caregiving burden of ALS is significant.

In 2005, my father succumbed to ALS, so it has affected me personally. Each year at this time, friends, family, and supporters of those suffering from ALS dedicate their time and energy to increase the knowledge of this devastating disease and to raise funds for a cure.

I encourage each Member to wear a cornflower today to demonstrate our support in the fight against ALS so that together we can support families and find a cure.”