Beginning in 2017, the Cure SMA Walk for Graham has provided strength and inspiration to families affected by this disorder for the last nine years. This event, held in honor of Graham Vollmer and run by his family, took place on the sixth of September, 2025.
The goal of this event is to bring awareness to and raise money for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) treatment. The Walk is part of a larger charity called Cure SMA.
“SMA is a [genetic] disorder affecting [a person’s] motor neurons,” According to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
This means that, over time, the muscles will weaken from disuse. Often, this causes wheelchair use for people with SMA. It is important to note that this disease does not affect a person’s intelligence.
The Vollmer family raised over $160,000 this year, falling just under their goal of $190,000.
This donation money helps fund medical research, advocacy, and education for new SMA families.
As well as raising money for SMA, the Walk for Graham also has many positive effects on the Vollmer family. According to multiple members of the Vollmer family, it strengthens the bonds between them.
Violet Gutwein, Graham’s cousin, has attended the event every year since it began. She loves seeing her family come together at the walk and appreciates all the support they receive.
“I know my aunt works really hard for this to happen, and my whole family helps out,” said Violet.
The Story Starts With You
During the opening ceremony and speeches, Kenneth Hobby, the president of Cure SMA, had the opportunity to speak.
During his speech, he brought up the idea that none of the milestones that Cure SMA had crossed would be possible without the people attending the Walk For Graham.
He stated that without the individual people that choose to spend their time raising awareness for and donating money to Cure SMA, the charity would not be as successful.
Adrienne Vollmer, the mother of Graham, also touched on this during her speech. She mentioned the extreme effect that the Walk for Graham has on her and her family as well.
These speeches serve as a reminder to students everywhere that change starts with one person. One choice, such as donating money or advocating for a cause, can inspire change in others.
