The ALS Association Arizona Chapter is excited to announce it raised $900,000 and counting for ALS patients living with the incurable disease through its annual series of signature fall fundraising events.

“Last year, COVID-19 forced us to scale our favorite events down to ensure the safety of the community and we were happy to do so,” said Taryn Norley, president and CEO of the ALS Association Arizona Chapter. “But being back in person this year, following CDC guidelines, and seeing the outpouring of support from patients, families, friends and advocates for an ALS cure was so heartwarming. Reaching this fundraising record means that we can provide those who’ve been diagnosed and their loved ones with all the resources needed to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease.”

The organization’s campaign kicked off on October 30 with the sold-out Bite Nite at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa’s Marshall Outpost, which raised more than $275,000. Hosted by Catherine Anaya and Larry Gaydos, 500 guests were treated to an exciting live auction led by iconic “auctiontainer” Letitia Frye, live music and delicious bites from Ling & Louie's Asian Bar and Grill, Maple & Ash, Heidi’s Events & Catering, Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, Creations in Cuisine, Waltz & Weizer, Brat Haus, Fairytale Brownies, Crumbl Cookies, Black Rock Coffee, Queso Good Grilled Cheese Truck and O.H.S.O. Brewery, which brewed a special beer for the occasion called the ‘Kick ALS IPA’.

On November 13, the campaign continued with the Tucson Walk to Defeat ALS, which raised more than $60,000 at the Tucson Speedway hosted by vocalist Wendy Sweet. There was a car show for families who fundraised in southern Arizona, live entertainment, local sports mascots, Santa Claus, and food by Papa Johns, Eegees and Cupcakes by Amy. Members of University of Arizona’s Phi Delta Theta and Delta Tau Delta organizations volunteered at the event.

The campaign closed with the Scottsdale Walk to Defeat ALS on November 20 at the Salt River Fields hosted by Larry Gaydos. The walk, which raised more than $565,000, was led by the Arizona Coyotes mascot, Howler, with special appearances by Santa Claus, the Dune Sea Garrison – 501st Legion, Heroes United, Arizona Ghostbusters, two DJs, and the band Lazy Susan. Treats were provided by Kona Ice and Papa Johns.

Money raised from the events goes toward equipment, education, support groups, access to care, advocacy and finding a cure for the currently fatal disease. For more information on the ALS Association Arizona Chapter, visit alsaz.org and like on Facebook at ALS Association Arizona Chapter.

About ALS Arizona Chapter
The ALS Association Arizona Chapter provides services and support to patients suffering from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. The ALS Association is the only national nonprofit devoted solely to the fight against Lou Gehrig’s disease on all fronts. These include patient and family services and programs, community outreach, and research. ALS is 100% fatal with no known cause, cure, or effective treatment. Upon diagnosis, patients have only 2-5 years to live, and expenses for those living with ALS average $200,000 annually.