More than 50 employees of UNMC and the clinical enterprise took part in the 2014 ALS Association Keith Worthington Chapter’s Walk to Defeat ALS, held Saturday at Werner Park.
Before the walk began, J. Americo Fernandes, M.D., associate professor of neurological sciences, and director of the med center’s ALS program, joined his team in a somewhat synchronized Ice Bucket Challenge.
| Watch the video. |
“The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has raised awareness toward ALS like never seen before, as well as fundamental resources to accelerate the progress of ALS research,” said Dr. Fernandes. “UNMC was honored this year to be once again an active participant in The Walk to Defeat ALS and is excited about the recent certification of our ALS Clinic as a Treatment Center of Excellence.
“There’s no better way to start a walk than with refreshing ice water for a good cause,” he added. “We were thankful to witness all the expression of love and friendship seen at the event.”
There were more than 73 donors, including approximately 54 walk members, for the UNMC/enterprise team, which as of Monday had raised more than $4,100. The walk raises funds that allow the ALS Association’s local chapter to sustain care services and support research.
UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., served as this year’s corporate recruitment chair for the event.