Your view: Go for walk/run

Dear Friends:

On April 3 a very important event will take place in Sikeston. Ferguson Medical Group is sponsoring a 5K/10K run or 5K walk for Batten's Disease. Batten's is a fatal, inherited disorder of the nervous system that begins in childhood. I am very familiar with Batten's because my granddaughter, Madeline Zellmer, suffers from Batten's.

Maddy was completely normal at age 4. Over the last three years, she has had uncontrollable seizures, progressive weakness, blindness and loss of higher mental facilities. We love Maddy tremendously and have tried to support the Batten's Disease Support and Research Association (BDSRA). My daughter, Kim, Maddy's mother, has spent numerous hours caring for Maddy and offering her volunteer support to families with Batten's.

Batten's Disease is difficult to diagnose. Many families have to incur huge medical expenses to just get an accurate diagnosis. That is why the BDSRA is so important. I am asking the loving, caring individuals in Southeast Missouri to come out and support our run/walk on April 3 or to simply make a donation. Every dollar raised is much needed and will go to BDSRA. To learn more about Batten's, you may visit the BDSRA website at bdsra.org or write me at Ferguson Medical Group, 1012 N. Main St., Sikeston, MO 63801.

This event is a perfect way to bring your family out and celebrate what a real blessing a healthy child is. It is also a way to exercise your body for a good cause. The event begins at 9:30 a.m. at Ferguson Medical Group. Please join us to raise money and awareness about this devastating disease.

I would like to especially thank Dr. Cully Bryant for organizing the event and Area Properties, Ponder Funeral Home, Regal Health Club and Randy's Rx for being corporate sponsors. Registration forms may be obtained at Regal Health Club, Ferguson Medical Group or by calling 481-5028.

Sincerely,

William Shell M.D.