Spectrum Clubs gear up to raise money for ALS awareness

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Imagine going from the picture of health one day, and a few months later, not being able to walk or stand.

Those who suffer from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) understand these feelings all too well. Researchers are working hard, but there's no cure yet.

Toni Brown, a longtime group exercise coordinator for the California Spectrum Clubs, was diagnosed with ALS three years ago. To support Brown and help raise awareness and funds, Spectrum Clubs in the greater Los Angeles-area are hosting a charity event, called Gettin' Down with Toni Brown, on Saturday, July 12.

"We're trying to educate people about Toni and then her wish to dedicate her life now to ALS and fighting this devastating disease," said Steve Krum, general manager of the South Bay Spectrum Club.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is an incurable neurological disorder that causes paralysis and is fatal usually within a few years of diagnosis.

Health Specialist Denise Dador met Brown, who at the time was in the early stages and was able to walk with assistance. Today however, Brown is almost completely paralyzed, able to communicate only through a computerized device.

"The devastating thing about ALS is that it's taken her body, her tool, the thing that she used as an example and to motivate all of us. It's taken that away from her," said Krum.

"It's tough to see first off. I can't imagine having to go through that and Toni's strength has been a real inspiration to a lot of us," said longtime friend and co-worker Terri Cisneros.

Through an annual auction and exercise event, Spectrum Clubs have raised over $100,000 in the past two years and now want to raise at least $50,000 for this year's program.

"I want people to really understand how horrible the disease is and that is not OK that there is no cure for ALS," said Brown via her computer.

This Saturday, the Spectrum Clubs invite you to any of their clubs in the L.A. area to take a group fitness class. The minimum donation is $25, with all of the proceeds going to Augie's Quest to help find that cure.

Get more information on the event at www.spectrumclubs.com.