Participants lors de la 20e Marche pour Vaincre la SLA à La Malbaie.

An exceptional show of support for people affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) 

The 20th Walk to End ALS took place on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Parc du Havre in La Malbaie, bringing together hundreds of participants to support people living with ALS and their families. This edition was remarkable in many ways, particularly in terms of community engagement and funds raised. 

Our Walks to End ALS are family- and community-focused events held across the province, raising funds to support scientific research on ALS, as well as the services, support, and resources we provided to affected individuals and families.

A record amount raised for the walk 

Thanks to the involvement of the community and Yvon Perron’s miniature houses, the walk raised a record-breaking $45,272. 

Since its creation in 2004, the Walk to End ALS in Charlevoix has raised over $300,000 for research and family support. 

Community initiatives in Charlevoix in 2025 

In 2025, the Charlevoix region succeeded in raising more than $64,500 thanks to the many initiatives organized by the community.

  • The Walk To End ALS in Charlevoix
  • Denis Villeneuve’s team (Denis Unlimited Power) for Ride to End ALS 
  • Yvon Perron’s miniature houses 
  • Karine Soulières’ candles 
  • The bowling tournament, with Martin Lavoie as honorary president 
Zoé Villeneuve et Denis Villeuneuve
Zoé Villeneuve and Denis Villeneuve, who passed away from ALS.

 

Karine Soulières (right) at the 20th Walk to End ALS in La Malbaie.

 

Martin Lavoie (in the middle)

Yvon Perron’s miniature houses: an inspiring commitment 

This edition highlighted key community figures dedicated to supporting people living with ALS. Yvon Perron, whose commitment has helped raise over $100,000 for the ALS Society of Quebec over the years, received an honorary certificate in recognition of his exceptional contribution. 

Yvon Perron with Claudine Cook, Executive Director of the ALS Society of Quebec, as well as Martin Lavoie and Dr. Jean-Pierre Canuel at the 20th Walk to End ALS in La Malbaie.

2025 Mario Hudon Award Recipient: Martin Lavoie 

Martin Lavoie, well known in the region as DJ Martin and himself affected by ALS, was awarded the Mario Hudon Prize for his exemplary dedication and role in raising ALS awareness. 

Nancy Bérubé (spouse of Mario Hudon), Martin Lavoie, and Claudine Cook at the 20th Walk to End ALS in La Malbaie.

For Martin Lavoie, the walk also carries a powerful message of courage and hope: “I love life so much. Why give up? Life is too beautiful to live.” 

Thanks to the organizing committee, volunteers, and participants 

We would like to thank Elsa Tremblay, a neuroscience research officer whose grandmother and father were affected by ALS and whose aunt currently lives with the disease, as well as Luc Samama, honorary president, and the entire organizing committee of the Walk to End ALS in La Malbaie. 

Claudine Cook, Executive Director of the ALS Society of Quebec, alongside Elsa Tremblay and Luc Samama at the 20th Walk to End ALS in La Malbaie. PHOTO: NICOLAS ST-PIERRE 

A big thank you to all participants for your generosity and presence! 

 

How can you support people living with ALS? 

Become an ambassador and actively join our mission to End ALS.

Become an Ambassador 

Want to contribute in another way? Discover all the ways you can make an impact.

I Want to Help 

 

About Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) 

ALS is a neurodegenerative incurable fatal illness that destroys motor neurons. People with ALS gradually lose their mobility, but also their ability to talk, eat and eventually, breathe. Senses are not affected and 80% die within two to five years after the diagnosis. 

What is ALS? 

About the ALS Society of Quebec 

We are a non-profit community organization dedicated to supporting people with ALS and their families at every stage of the disease, raising awareness with the public and government officials and funding crucial research are also part of our mission. 

About the ALS Society of Quebec 

 

Share this article.