Walking for Williams Syndrome

Keeley Wilson has had rough times during her life as she deals with the effects of Williams Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects people from birth.

But she sure enjoyed herself last spring when Havre held its first walk against the disease.

The nearly 200 people who showed up had a good time, too, taking part in the barbecue that followed and enjoying the face-painting, games and music that was provided by the youth group at Van Orsdel United Methodist Church.

Keeley’s mother, Dottie Wilson, hopes all these people and more will be on hand for this year’s event, Sunday, May 31

“She’s had her challenges, but Keeley sure had a great time last year,” Dottie said. “She enjoyed being around all these people.”

For $20 a person or $50 a family, people can take part in the walk, which will start at Town Square. After an opening prayer from Van Orsdel pastor John Ulrich, people will enjoy the music and take off on the walk that will go down 3rd Avenue to 9th Street to 5th Avenue and back to 1st Street and Town Square.

Dottie said last year everyone had a good time laughing, chatting and enjoying the music while contributing to a good cause.

For all the bad effects of the disorder, she said, people who have it are always friends, outgoing and enjoy themselves.

The money raised will help the Williams Syndrome Foundation, she said. The group provides money for research, help for families of people with Williams, and information that helps schools and doctors understand the disease.

Because it’s so rare, many medical and educational experts don’t know much about it, Dottie said.

People who want to donate will also get a chance Thursday, when Havre Pizza Hut holds a fundraiser.

People who buy pizza for eat-in, delivery or takeout should mention to the server that they want to contribute to the fight against Williams Syndrome. Twenty percent of the money will go to the foundation in Keeley’s name.

Want to take part in the Walk Against Williams Syndrome?

You can pre-register at walk4williams.org or just show up at the event. Pre-registration starts at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at Town Square, and the walk begins at 4 p.m. It costs $20 a person or $50 a family.

People can also buy food at Havre Pizza Hut Thursday.

Tell the server you want to donate to the fight against Williams Syndrome. Twenty percent of the money will go to the fight against Williams.