A week of rain threatened to derail the 2019 Illinois Walk-Run-N-Roll. Willow Stream Park became aptly named as parts of it became flooded. Fortunately, the sun came out, the ground dried up, and more than 150 participants enjoyed a day of awareness, activities, and remembrance.

As people arrived, they were greeted by the energetic sounds of DJ T-Y, who provided the soundtrack for the event. Stories of those diagnosed with rare neuroimmune disorders hung from clotheslines stretched under the pavilion. Emcee Bill Shaner kept the crowd informed by reading off statistics about each disorder. The Jesse White Tumblers, who attended last year’s walk, entertained once again with their amazing tumbling act. A cheering section helped urge the walkers over the finish line with words of encouragement. Bruce Mondschain and Larry Schaefer documented everything with their wonderful photography. Synergy Adaptive Athletics provided wheelchairs for folks to try their hand at some wheelchair basketball. Finally, a short program reminded everyone of those we have lost due to these disorders and why research and fundraising is so critical.

We want to thank the 2019 co-chairs (Nancy Dove, Debbie Bertolami, and Barbara Williams), the volunteers (Liz, John, and the Beutel family; Agnes Policarpio; Carol and John Carney; Jean Alletag; Jon Kartman; Irma and Kevin Dixler; Dan and Ann Bruch; Barbara Ray; and all who helped), and the sponsors (Viela Bio, Mark Drugs, University Associates in Dentistry, Coloplast, DuPage Acupuncture Clinic, Pepsico, and Sheridan Road Financial) who made this event possible. We want to thank anyone who fundraised or donated. Due to all of you, the 2019 Illinois Walk-Run-N-Roll raised more than $13,000! We also want to thank everyone who attended, brought a friend, shared the event on social media, gave a hug or words of encouragement to another attendee, picked up trash, moved a table, or said hi to someone new to our community.