TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The Alabama Alpha Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity at The University of Alabama will be hosting the Walk to D’Feet ALS to benefit the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association, the fraternity’s national philanthropy, on Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. – noon on the Quad.

ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal neuromuscular disease. In most cases, a person’s mind remains sharp and alert while voluntary muscle control is lost and often total paralysis follows as the disease progresses. There is no known cause, cure or means of prevention for ALS. The ALS Association is the only nonprofit organization dedicated solely to helping patients of Lou Gehrig’s disease and their families.

The Walk to D’Feet ALS is the signature fund-raiser of the ALS Association. The event is held throughout the country, including walks in Birmingham and Huntsville. This will be the first walk held in the City of Tuscaloosa. The goal is to raise $50,000 for research and care services for patients of Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Food and refreshments, live music and T-shirts will be provided for participants on walk day. Teams and organizations are encouraged to wear T-shirts displaying their organization’s logo and also to set up tables with banners.

Phi Delta Theta chose to be involved with the ALS Association in honor of baseball legend Lou Gehrig, who was a member. In addition to hosting the Walk to D’Feet ALS, the Alabama Alpha Chapter hosts its Annual Chili Cook Off each fall.

For more information about donations and volunteering, contact Nick Blanchard at 251/786-5888 or ntblanchard@bama.ua.edu.

The University of Alabama, a student-centered research university, is in the midst of a planned, steady enrollment growth with a goal of reaching 28,000 students by 2010. This growth, which is positively impacting the campus and the state's economy, is in keeping with UA's vision to be the university of choice for the best and brightest students. UA, the state's flagship university, is an academic community united in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Alabamians.