Tom Horton's Paddling Expedition Aims to Raise ALS Awareness in U.S. and Greece

Tom Horton, a longtime supporter of the ALS Network, is set to embark on a unique paddling expedition through the Greek Islands this October, honoring his late mother and raising awareness and funds for those affected by ALS in both the United States and Greece.

Horton, a resident of Los Angeles, will paddle through the Greek Islands from October 5 to 12, accompanied by nine family members and friends. This deeply personal journey is not just about the miles covered, but also about carrying forward his mother’s legacy and her appreciation for the rich history, culture, and people of Greece.

“This journey is a tribute to my mother, whose Greek heritage inspired a lifelong love for the country,” said Horton. “It is also about bringing awareness to ALS and supporting those affected by the disease in both the U.S. and Greece.”

The ALS Network and the Hellenic ALS Association are partnering to make this expedition a meaningful event. “Tom’s journey is about so much more than the miles he will travel,” said Sheri Strahl, president and CEO of the ALS Network. “It’s a deeply personal tribute rooted in family, heritage, and remembrance. We are 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 the disease affects people and families worldwide, access to resources, specialized care, and support can vary significantly.

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 the ALS Network’s Greece expedition campaign will support the organization’s mission to improve the lives of people living with ALS.

Both organizations will share photographs, videos, and updates from Horton’s journey, providing supporters in both countries with an opportunity to follow his progress. The campaign will also highlight the experiences of individuals and families whose stories drive the greater purpose behind the expedition.

Horton’s 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 Horton’s journey or support the campaign, visit paddlingtocureals.org.

The Hellenic ALS Association, the national patient association representing and supporting people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and motor neuron diseases (MND) in Greece, works to improve the quality of life, care, and support available to people living with ALS and their families across the country. 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 Greece. Visit alshellas.gr for details.