Central Florida’s annual Walk to Defeat ALS has been scheduled for Saturday at Lake Eola Park near downtown Orlando. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. and the 1.3-mile walk will begin at 11 a.m. The walk has taken on more significance to West Shore since former physical education teacher and cross-country coach Jason Whitworth was diagnosed with ALS three years ago.  Donations are not required but are much appreciated for the Whitworth family.

“I never had Coach Whitworth for gym, but even around the halls he was so genuine and friendly and always had a smile on his face,” sophomore Mary Billhartz said.

Whitworth’s personal goal for this year is $2,000, and he hopes you’ll help him reach it.

“I participated in this event last year, making donations to support ALS, and I will gladly participate in it again this year” sophomore Sarah Petrone said.

Whitworth has a personal website where donations can be made, http://webfl.alsa.org/site/TR?px=3377570&pg=personal&fr_id=10754&et=lXP-femd7VlqCbvYEUWYOQ&s_tafId=239701#.VOaqc0K4kfE.

“If I donated a dime, he would still be happy because that’s just the kind of person he is,” Petrone said.