Fundraising walks for Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy set for October

Fundraising walks to benefit those with Down syndrome and muscular dystrophy are scheduled for the next two weekends in the Tri-Cities.

The Tri-Cities Muscle Walk, organized by the local chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, will start at 9 a.m. Oct. 3 at Columbia Point Park in Richland.

The Down Syndrome Association of the Mid-Columbia will follow with its ninth annual Buddy Walk at 10 a.m. Oct. 10 at Richland’s Howard Amon Park.

While the money raised will go to different purposes — research into treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and awareness of and inclusion of those with Down syndrome in society — both also seek to bring communities together.

More than 150 Muscle Walks are scheduled around the nation each year, and the events raised more than $8.5 million last year, according to a news release. The Tri-Cities event specifically aids support groups and clinics, such as the MDA Clinic at Physicians Health Center in Pasco, as well as the MDA summer camp for kids at Camp Twinlow in Rathdrum, Idaho.

“Through MDA Muscle Walk, people in the Tri-Cities area can join forces to raise critical dollars that will make a real difference in the lives of people fighting life-threatening muscle disease in our community,” MDA executive director Leah Nathan said.

The Buddy Walk will feature a ceremonial one-mile family walk, but there will also be games, activities, a raffle, food and music from Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies.

“It’s a great family day for all,” said Delayna Skadorwa, board member of Down Syndrome Association of the Mid-Columbia.

To register for the MDA Muscle Walk, contact the local office at 509-325-3747.

To register for the Buddy Walk, families can pre-register at Shelby’s Floral at 5211 W. Clearwater Ave. in Kennewick from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 9. Regular registration begins at 10 a.m. at Howard Amon Park near the Richland Community Center.

This story was originally published September 30, 2015 at 6:39 PM with the headline "Fundraising walks for Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy set for October."