The Sault’s Troy and Annette Chandler spearheaded the 14th annual Troy's Trail Spirit Walk Saturday.
The event is a fundraiser for people living with hydrocephalus and spina bifida, with all funds raised going to Hydrocephalus Canada for research and support services.
Hydrocephalus is a life-threatening buildup of fluid in the brain, while spina bifida is a condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly.
There is no cure for either disease.
Troy Chandler was diagnosed with hydrocephalus in 1994 after suffering a seizure and had to undergo surgery that involved the insertion of a shunt to divert fluid away from his brain.
He has undergone 10 brain surgeries and four seizures. His last surgery was in 2001.
“Everyday life is challenging. I have lots of ins and outs. The seizures are under control right now, which is good. Unfortunately, the seizure medication has caused osteoporosis. I also have trigeminal neuralgia, which is a sharp nerve pain that I'll get in my face, up into my ears, into my eyes. But that's manageable,” Troy told SooToday.
The Chandlers launched the Troy's Trail Spirit Walk in 2012 as a fundraiser and an opportunity for locals living with hydrocephalus and spina bifida to gain strength from each other.
To date, the Troy's Trail Spirit Walk has raised approximately $34,000 for hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
Approximately 75 people - including people battling hydrocephalus and spina bifida as well as their friends and family members - joined the Chandlers on Saturday’s walk, which began outside the Art Gallery of Algoma, proceeded along the boardwalk to the Ronald A. Irwin Civic Centre and back.
The Troy's Trail Spirit Walk is one of several community walks held across Canada in the month of June, which is Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida Awareness Month.
Donations to Hydrocephalus Canada for research and support services can be made anytime through the organization's website.
Donations to Troy's Trail can be made here.