For the second year in a row, we had the pleasure of taking part as a family, joined by friends from the village, in this wonderful 4 km walk organized by Cie Vilandré to raise funds and support the fight against ALS.
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease or Charcot’s disease, is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease that progressively destroys motor neurons.
Behind this disease are individuals and families who must cope with an extremely difficult reality. That is why it is so important to support research, as well as the organizations that provide assistance to people living with ALS and their loved ones.
Cie Vilandré’s involvement
Cie Vilandré is proudly involved in organizing this walk, thanks in particular to Élyse Drouin, who has been bringing this wonderful event to life for the past three years.
The Vilandré family has unfortunately been directly affected by ALS. Pierre Vilandré passed away from the disease a few years ago, and his brother, Luc Vilandré, has since become deeply involved in supporting the cause.
Because ALS is a rare disease that has historically received limited resources, every contribution matters. Supporting affected families, raising public awareness and helping fund research can truly make a difference.
An opportunity to walk with our fellow residents
Once again, it was a wonderful day!
What a pleasure it was to walk alongside our fellow residents, see familiar faces, chat with one another, and watch families and friends come together in the heart of the village for a common cause.
And, of course, what better way to end such a beautiful day than with a good beer brewed right here in the village by Cie Vilandré!
Every year, Cie Vilandré adds a wonderful touch of hospitality to the event by offering each participant a complimentary beer, glass of wine or non-alcoholic beverage. It’s a great way to keep the good times going, take the time to chat and wrap up the walk together!
I sincerely invite you to take part in the North Hatley ALS Walk next year. Come fill the village streets with us, get some exercise, enjoy a great time with family and friends and, most importantly, help raise funds to fight this terrible disease.
The importance of volunteers and community events
Events like this do so much good for a community. One thing is certain: our family and friends love them!
Of course, they help raise awareness about an important cause and generate much-needed funds. But they also provide something equally valuable: an opportunity to come together, connect, share and get to know the people who are part of our community.
We come together to walk for a cause, but along the way, we also talk about our families, our projects, what’s happening in the village, or simply catch up with one another. It is often these little moments, spontaneous conversations and encounters that help create a true sense of belonging.
That is precisely what I love about life in a village like North Hatley: we don’t just live here—we live here together.
The more opportunities we create to meet one another and take part in community activities, the stronger the bonds become between neighbours, families, local businesses and residents. That is how a community becomes vibrant, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
I truly hope that we will see even more community events and citizen involvement in our village over the coming years. And, most importantly, that more and more of us will take part!
I look forward to walking with you next year!
Memories from the 2025 ALS Walk
