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Dystonia walk organizers hope event raises awareness

The Freedom to Move Walk-and-Wheel for Dystonia Research takes place starting at 9:30 a.m. June 14 at the Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre in Hanmer. The event raises funds for Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada.
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In 2013, Melanie Armstrong, centre, co-manager of the Walmart on Lasalle Boulevard, presented employee, Dwayne Backer, with a cheque for $4,087 made out to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada. Mary Guy, left, Dystonia Support Group leader, said she was thrilled Walmart supported Backer’s efforts to raise funds for dystonia research. Supplied photo.
The Freedom to Move Walk-and-Wheel for Dystonia Research takes place starting at 9:30 a.m. June 14 at the Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre in Hanmer.

The event raises funds for Dystonia Medical Research Foundation Canada.

Dystonia is a neurological disorder that affects the nervous system.

Improper signalling from the brain causes muscles to tighten and twist involuntarily. These muscle spasms force areas of the body into awkward movements and positions.

“It has been 18 years that we have been doing the walk for dystonia research,” said Mary Guy, leader of the Dystonia Support Group for Sudbury and District, in an email.

“However, dystonia is still not a household word like cancer or MS or even ALS, which is rarer than dystonia.

“Because it is a rare illness, we need all the help we can get to get the word out so that those suffering from dystonia can get the help they need. Many people don't know what is wrong with them, and family doctors see very few cases, if any, so it is difficult to get a diagnosis.”

The five-kilometre dystonia walk wraps up with a barbecue and door prizes. To learn more, visit www.dystoniacanada.org or email Guy at [email protected].

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