Whenever a local is in need the Bow Valley always steps up to the plate so I expect a big turnout this Saturday for a fundraiser to support Leslie Vanderzwet in her fight against ALS.

ALS has affected Leslie’s ability to speak and she’s losing muscle control in her hands and ankles.  While there is no cure for ALS, she has been approved for stem cell treatment at a clinic in Mexico which has shown success in slowing symptoms.  Since Canadian health care will not cover the costs of the treatment, travel, or accommodation, Leslie’s many friends have come together to help raise money with a GoFundMe page and a big event at the Banff Trail Riders stables this Saturday night.

Karen Sorensen is Banff’s Mayor but on this occasion she called in as a friend of Leslie to show her support.

Tickets for Saturday’s fundraiser are $25 and can be purchased at the Trail Riders Store on Banff Ave, the Community Services office in Lloyd Hall at The Banff Centre, and at Can-Bow Motors in Canmore.