Ruta solidaria de bomberos por la enfermedad de Huntington en Extremadura

The fire route X Solidity will travel on Saturday, April 26, covering a total of 55 kilometers in support of research and the fight against the rare Huntington’s disease, which affects about 210 people in Extremadura. This non-competitive walk will pass through Cáceres, Valdeslor, Torreorgaz, and Sierra de Fuentes, aiming to gather around 300 participants. Those who do not wish to complete the full 55 kilometers can join the route in stages.

All proceeds from this event will go to the Extremadura Association for Huntington’s Disease, a rare condition that affects 20 out of every 100,000 individuals. Maria Ángeles González, the representative of this association, highlighted the importance of this initiative that combines sports and solidarity.

Huntington’s disease is a neurological, hereditary, and degenerative condition diagnosed in approximately 4,000 individuals in Spain. However, around 20,000 people may be carriers of the gene without knowing it, as genetic testing is not commonly done due to it still being a taboo subject. The association not only focuses on advancing therapies and treatments but also on raising awareness among families to encourage genetic testing.

The disease causes the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain due to a faulty gene present from birth. Symptoms typically appear after 30 or 40 years and may include uncontrolled movements, balance issues, and cognitive impairment. In advanced stages, individuals may experience difficulties in walking, speaking, swallowing, as well as mental health challenges.

Alberto Ortega Villarroel, the Deputy of Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Service in Cáceres, participated in the event presentation, which was organized by the volunteer firefighters in Cáceres in collaboration with local institutions. Sergio Domínguez, the mayor of Sierra de Fuentes, expressed gratitude for the initiative as the region has several cases of Huntington’s disease, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and providing support to affected individuals.

The route of the solidarity firefighters, with a registration fee of 22 euros, is open for participation or for those who wish to contribute without walking the full distance. The 55-kilometer circular route will start at 9:00 am at the Cáceres fire station, passing through several locations before concluding back in Cáceres around 9:00 pm.

Participants can expect low terrain difficulty, with appropriate supplies including food provided at designated points along the route. This event emphasizes solidarity and collaboration in the fight against Huntington’s disease.

FUENTE