TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama chapter of Phi Delta Theta fraternity will be hosting the Walk to Defeat ALS on Saturday, May 3, beginning at 11 a.m. on the Quad.

The event’s primary goal is to raise money and awareness of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, said Nick Blanchard, Phi Delta Theta philanthropy chair at UA.

The Walk to Defeat ALS is the signature fundraiser of the ALS Association. The event is held throughout the country, including walks in Birmingham and Huntsville.

Blanchard said that there will be food, drinks and T-shirts for all who participate in the event.

Phi Delta Theta chose the ALS Association as a national philanthropy in honor of baseball legend Lou Gehrig, who was a member of the fraternity.

ALS 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.

Blanchard said that donations are not required but are encouraged. For more information on Walk to Defeat ALS or information on making donations, contact Blanchard at 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.