Fourth annual walkathon helps promote awareness for health and fitness in
    familiesTORONTO, Aug. 13 /CNW/ - The Foundation for Prader-Willi Research Canada
and Scotiabank will team up again in support of the Foundation's One Small
Step Walkathon this Sunday, August 17th, promoting public awareness about the
importance of health and fitness in all families. More than 500 people are
expected to participate by walking 2k and running 5k to raise funds for
Prader-Willi research this Sunday at Centennial Park in Etobicoke.
    "Scotiabank is proud of its continued support for Prader-Willi Research
in the fourth year of the walk," said Jamie Auerbach, Scotiabank District
Vice-President, Toronto West. "On Sunday, hundreds of families will take part
in the 2k walk and 5k run in celebration of a healthy and active lifestyle
together all in support for an important cause."
    "We're delighted to have Scotiabank as our Platinum Sponsor again this
year," said Keegan Johnson, Founder and Chairman of the Foundation for
Prader-Willi Research Canada. "Scotiabank was our founding sponsor and each
year and with every person who gets involved we are one small step closer to a
cure," added Johnson.
    People interested in participating in this event or supporting this cause
can visit www.onesmallstep.ca
    Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a complex genetic disorder which typically
causes low muscle tone, cognitive disabilities, behavioural issues and a
chronic feeling of hunger that can lead to excessive eating and
life-threatening obesity. People with PWS can never live independently due to
their insatiable appetites and constant supervision is necessary. Many
children with PWS grow up undiagnosed due to lack of awareness. PWS affects
one out of 12,000 new families each year.

    Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live
and work, both in Canada and abroad. Recognized as a leader internationally
and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic
activities, in 2007 the Bank provided more than $43 million in sponsorships
and donations to a variety of projects and initiatives, primarily in the areas
of healthcare, education and social services and arts and culture. Please
visit us at www.scotiabank.com.