Two local Bally Total Fitness centers have just kicked off their 4th annual campaign for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Augie’s Quest, running from July 1 through August 31.
Bally on South Semoran Blvd. will be offering Zumba classes on Mondays at 6:45 and Wednesdays at 7:30 with a portion of the $5 fee benefiting Augie’s Quest. Bally on Dr. Phillips will be hosting a car wash and fun run from 8 AM to 12 PM on August 13 to raise money for MDA. Additionally, they will be offering different classes every night at 6 PM with all proceeds benefiting Augie’s Quest.
Fitness leader Augie Nieto founded Augie’s Quest in 2005 after he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He partnered with MDA with the sole purpose of finding a cure for the disease. ALS affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. Symptoms include generalized weakness and muscle wasting with cramps and muscle twitches. The disease results in complete paralysis and usually progresses rapidly with 3- to 5-year average survival.
MDA medical services are available in Orlando at the Regional Lucerne Hospital for those who are diagnosed with any of the 43 neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA. MDA also provides a fun-filled summer camp in Live Oak, Fla. for children ages 6 to 18 with muscular dystrophy.
For more information about the MDA, please contact Kathy Henry at the Orlando A District office at (407) 241-2370, or visit the Web site at www.mda.org.
