Walk and Roll is here to stay

By Lethbridge Herald on July 22, 2025.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

When Kyle and Brittani Knowles finish their shifts at the Lethbridge Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC), they turn their attention to another very personal call: raising awareness for muscular dystrophy (MD). 

In support of this cause, colleagues, family and friends joined the Knowles family at Legacy Park Saturday for the 2025 Walk and Roll for Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC).

The husband-and-wife team re-introduced the event (which had been held annually in Lethbridge before the COVID pandemic) in 2024, a year after their son, Ari, was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare disorder that leads to progressive muscular degeneration.

“Our son was diagnosed two years ago with DMD and last year we decided to host the Lethbridge Walk and Roll because we did not have one here,” said Kyle Knowles. “The closest would have been in Calgary.”

In its first year back, the event raised over $12,000. That sum immediately placed Lethbridge as a top contributor to Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s mission of improving the lives of those affected by neuromuscular disorders. 

“Our experience in 2024 was both a learning opportunity and a success,” said Brittani Knowles. “We saw how eager people were to help, and we know we can accomplish even more this year.”

The Knowles family’s goal for 2025 was to raise $20,000 and they had already secured $8,348 prior to Saturday’s event..

“We definitely have more participants than last year,” said Kyle. “We are well on our way to surpass last year’s target.”

The Walk and Roll holds deep personal meaning for the Knowles family and serves as a broader platform to increase visibility for muscular dystrophy. They are determined to make the Walk and Roll an annual tradition in Lethbridge.

“For us, the fight against muscular dystrophy is more than just fundraising. It is about supporting our son and the thousands of Canadians living with neuromuscular disorders,” said Kyle. “For our family, this event means being heard. It shows us we are not alone, and it brings much-needed attention to the cause.”

For his commitment to MDC, Kyle has been appointed Community Fundraising Officer for Western Canada. In this role, he will attend and participate in the success of additional Walk and Roll events across Western Canada; and continue building relations with fire departments to strengthen ties with MDC.

“Firefighters have long played an essential role in supporting Muscular Dystrophy Canada,” he said. “I am honoured to help continue this tradition.”

Since 1954, firefighters have helped Muscular Dystrophy Canada raise more than $100 million nationwide. Locally, Knowles is working with the Lethbridge Firefighters Charities Association to support various fundraising initiatives, including a 50/50 raffle to benefit the Walk and Roll.

“Lethbridge firefighters have been supporting Muscular Dystrophy Canada for many years through rooftop fundraisers, 50/50 draws and other community events,” sayid Lethbridge Firefighters Charities Association president David Skilling. “We are proud to stand behind the Lethbridge Walk and Roll event.