MDA Seeks Volunteers to Particpate in First Ever "Airplane Pull Challenge"

The Muscular Dystrophy Association is seeking participants for the first ever "Airplane Pull Challenge" to be held at the Lehigh Valley International Airport in Allentown, Pa. on Sept. 30, 2006 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. MDA is looking for teams of 15-20 people to flex their muscles in an attempt to pull a 727 aircraft weighing 167,000 lbs. across 12 ft. Teams are encouraged to raise $1,300, all of which directly benefits those with muscular dystrophy in Southeastern Pa.

This event is being held in honor of Brett Snyder, former Lehigh University Fullback who was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) in 2005. ALS or Amyothrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a degenerative disease that affects the motor neurons responsible for voluntary muscle movement. While the influences of ALS are first noticeable in the outer limbs or throat and mouth, the disease will ultimately affect all voluntary muscles and result in paralysis. MDA is the world leader in voluntary agencies fighting ALS.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health organization aimed at conquering the 43 neuromuscular diseases, including ALS, that affect over one million Americans. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive local services and far-reaching professional and public health education. MDA seeks no governement grants, United Way funds, or fees from patients and their families, enabling those who receive aid from the association to do so free of charge.

To register for this unique and exciting event, please contact Scott Reichley at 610-391-1977 or sreichley@mdausa.org by Aug. 15. For more information about MDA, please visit www.mda.org.

Interview opportunities are available with Former Lehigh University Fullback Brett Snyder and MDA Allentown District Director Scott Reichley. To arrange an interview, please contact Reesa Kossoff at 610-729-0050.