The Grey Cup-winning former head coach of the Canadian Football League's B.C. Lions saw first-hand what ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a motor neuron condition, formerly Lou Gehrig's Disease) can do to a person.

That's why Wally Buono is an official spokesperson for the Move to Cure ALS event.

This year marks the 13th Anniversary of the Move to Cure ALS event in Vernon, which goes Saturday, June 8, starting at 10 a.m. in Polson Park.

Over the years, this event has raised an impressive $284,000. Last year, there were 66 participants, with the community's collective power and commitment raising $10,600. This year, the fundraising goal is $10,000.

鈥淎fter having teammates and friends pass away from the deadly effects of ALS, I was moved to lend a hand of support," said Buono. "As we all gather to beat ALS by participating or supporting financially 'Move to Cure ALS,' we all work together to find a cure. Thank you for doing your part.鈥�

The Move To Cure ALS event is the ALS Society of B.C.'s signature fiundraising initiative. This event is a community celebration of hope, a tribute to those who have been lost to the disease, and a show of support for those currently battling ALS.

Participants can walk, run, rollerblade, support or participate virtually.

One hundred per cent of the event's net proceeds will remain in British Columbia and the Yukon, providing direct support to individuals living with ALS, essential patient services programs, and ALS research through the  initiative, which is currently establishing a world-class ALS Centre at the University of British Columbia's . 

The aim is to assemble a top-tier clinical care and research team to enhance patient care, advance ALS research, and ultimately find a cure for ALS.

The Vernon event is among 12 across B.C.

Registration at Polson Park starts at 10 a.m. and the moving begins at 11 a.m.

To register or donate, go to . Contact event coordinator Sydney Pearson at vernonwalk@alsbc.ca for more information.