LOS ANGELES and ATHENS, Greece, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ALS Network and the Hellenic ALS Association today announced an international collaboration surrounding an extraordinary endurance expedition connecting two countries and two ALS communities through a shared commitment to people and families impacted by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
This October 5-12, longtime ALS Network supporter Tom Horton will embark on an ambitious paddling expedition through the Greek Islands in honor of his late mother, whose Greek heritage inspired a lifelong appreciation for the country’s history, culture and people. Joined by nine family members and friends, the deeply personal journey will carry an equally important purpose: raising awareness of ALS and generating support for individuals and families impacted by the disease in both the United States and Greece.
“Tom’s journey is about so much more than the miles he will travel,” said Sheri Strahl, MPH, MBA, president and CEO, ALS Network. “It’s a deeply personal tribute rooted in family, heritage, and remembrance. We’re proud to join with Tom and the Hellenic ALS Association to bring our communities together, raise greater awareness of ALS, and remind people of the powerful impact we can have through collaboration.”
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. While ALS affects people and families around the world, access to resources, specialized care and support can vary significantly.
ALS Network and the Hellenic ALS Association share a commitment to improving the lives of people living with ALS while helping build greater awareness and momentum toward a world without the disease.
“We are deeply honored to join ALS Network in this collaboration,” said Aspa Karampela, president of the Hellenic ALS Association. “Tom’s expedition is a powerful reminder that compassion and determination know no borders. Together, we hope this journey inspires people in Greece and the United States to take action, raise awareness and create new opportunities for people living with ALS and their families.”
As part of the collaboration, the Hellenic ALS Association will lead fundraising efforts in Greece to support its work serving people living with ALS throughout the country. In the United States, donations made through ALS Network’s Greece expedition campaign will support ALS Network’s mission.
Throughout the expedition, both organizations will share photographs, videos and updates from Horton’s journey, providing supporters in both countries an opportunity to follow his progress.
The campaign will also highlight the individuals and families whose experiences provide the greater purpose behind the expedition.
For Horton, the journey brings together his mother’s legacy, his connection to Greece and his longstanding commitment to the ALS community.
For the two organizations, it represents a simple but powerful belief: ALS knows no borders and neither does hope.
To follow Tom’s journey or support the campaign, visit paddlingtocureals.org.
About ALS Network
The ALS Network partners with the ALS community to drive the global discovery of prevention strategies, treatments, and cures for ALS; provide access to quality care and connection; and promote initiatives and legislation to improve health outcomes. For more information about ALS and the ALS Network, visit alsnetwork.org or email info@alsnetwork.org. You can find the ALS Network on social media at @yourALSnetwork.
About the Hellenic ALS Association
The Hellenic ALS Association is the national patient association representing and supporting people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and motor neuron diseases (MND), and their families in Greece The Association works to improve the quality of life, care, and support available to people living with ALS and their families across Greece. Its activities include online support groups, dedicated patient and caregiver communities, access to reliable information and resources, advocacy for improved healthcare and social support, and awareness and educational initiatives with healthcare professionals and clinical centers throughout the country. Visit alshellas.gr for details.
Media Contact
Eric Beikmann
ebeikmann@alsnetwork.org
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SOURCE ALS Network
