2012 Jack Vernon Walk to Silence Tinnitus Gets Big Boost From Anonymous Donors

- All Donations of $25 or More Will Be Matched Two-for-One -

PORTLAND, Ore., June 4, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Tinnitus Association (ATA) announced today that their annual Jack Vernon Walk to Silence Tinnitus will take place on June 16, 2012, and this year includes a very special offer for participants. Every registration or donation of support toward the event of $25 or more will matched, two-to-one, for up to $70,000 total. All money raised from this event will be 100% restricted to funding research through ATA's research grant program.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120501/DC97522LOGO)

"This event is one of the primary ways we raise money to fund research proposals," said Michael Malusevic, ATA Executive Director.  "ATA is so thankful for the generosity of these matching donors. When coupled with public participation and support of this event, these gifts will make an immense difference in ATA's ability to fund tinnitus research. This in turn, will advance the science toward new treatments and ultimately a cure for the many millions who suffer," he concluded.

The Walk has two components:

1. An online Walk that allows people from anywhere across the globe to start or join a team in support of tinnitus research.  Simply visit Walk.ata.org and click on "Start or Support a Team" and follow the on-screen prompts to get your team started or to support an existing team.
2. A physical 5K walk in Portland, Oregon at Willamette Park on June 16, 2012. You can start a team or join any of the existing teams even if you don't come physically walk the 5K.

WHAT: The 2012 Jack Vernon Walk to Silence Tinnitus

WHEN: The online Walk is happening now! The physical walk is Saturday, June 16, 2012 at 10 a.m.

WHERE: The physical walk will take place at Willamette Park

Tinnitus impacts 50 million people in the United States and 16 million suffer chronically. It is commonly referred to as "ringing in the ears" and is often the result of noise exposure.  Tinnitus is also the leading service-connected disability affecting United States veterans, accounting for over 840,000. While there are treatments that work for some people, there is currently no cure and that's why funding research is at the forefront of ATA's efforts.

ATA has long and rich history of only funding the most meritorious research proposals. You can read about the research ATA has funded, at ATA.org/research.

About the American Tinnitus Association
For over 40 years, ATA has helped tinnitus patients understand and manage the "ringing in their ears." ATA exists to cure tinnitus through the development of resources that advance tinnitus research. Founded in 1971, ATA has contributed millions of dollars to medical research projects focused on curing tinnitus. The association also provides information on tinnitus to the public and advocates for public policies that support its mission of curing tinnitus. Ata.org.

Contact: Jennifer Born (800) 634-8978 x215
[email protected]     

SOURCE American Tinnitus Association