A Cure for Karl
Having had a loved one diagnosed with ALS, there are many emotions one feels. Confusion, sadness, anger, helplessness. When we learned of my uncle’s diagnosis in 2008, I had no idea what ALS was or, if I’m being honest, even how to pronounce the official diagnosis. As time went on, we did our research and learned what this would mean for the years to come. I saw the challenges and struggles my uncle and family faced and realized that this situation was more than reading medical pamphlets or “Tuesdays with Morrie” could have ever prepared us for.
Throughout it all, my uncle remained as positive and charismatic as ever. The way his eyes would sparkle when he was around his loved ones, you could tell he was determined to live his life to the fullest despite his setbacks. Even when he lost his ability to speak, he still had a way of lighting up the room around him. The strength, persistence, and unconditional love that was shown during this time was truly inspirational.
"Karl Notholt was a gentle giant. He was 6’ 8” tall and had a heart to match. He was always kind and caring. He was a wonderful son, brother, uncle, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He never had a bad word for anyone. When he was diagnosed with ALS and lived with it from 2008 through 2020, he showed such grace in adapting to the many difficult changes his body went through. He always had a big smile for everyone. He was loved by all, especially the nurses who said he was always positive. When they were having a hard day, they would go to see Karl for his infectious smile and it made them realize their problems were not so bad. He had the most beautiful blue eyes that did show sadness sometimes, but he was blessed that those eyes were able to work a computer which allowed him to communicate till the end. My heart aches missing him. He was my better half, a true hero, who lived with such grace and made a difference in so many lives." - Marie-Lou Notholt, Wife of Karl
With the progress made from donations over the years, and at large by the ice bucket challenge, ALS has now become a more livable disease. Those diagnosed are given more precious years with their loved ones all the while having a better quality of life.
It is my hope that with this fundraiser and event, and hopefully in those years to come, we are able to raise the funds to one day make ALS a curable disease. Your support will allow The ALS Association to continue leading the fight against ALS in research, advocacy, and care services nationwide.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe. There is currently no cure. The ALS Association’s goal is to make ALS livable for everyone, everywhere, until it is cured.
Thank You to all who attended and donated, especially recent donors:
Olga Someras
Olga Tzortzatos
John Lazoglou
Michelle Santoro
Colin Shayla
Bryce Husted
Brad Husted
Tara Kelly
Alexa Cappizzo
Mike Cappizzo
Brendan Maloney
Justin Colson
Rich Gandolfo
Mollie Geiger
Aws Laaribi
Kelsey Watson
Amy Joseph
Mark Vega
Slone Davis
Steph Laffey
Kate Jones
Alexa Ricci
Nicole Manera
Michael Trotta
Bryan Tooker
Shanna Salvatori
Zev Fima
Kelsey Ciminillo
Calli Kaplan
Danielle Reynolds
Tyler Buchanan
Louis Oliva
Annie Mezzapelle
Michelle Sygulski
John Nestka
Courtney Riches
Scott Riches
Dan Barretta
Julie Considine
Jenna Considine
Zuri Delfosse
Kathy Fuchs
Stefan Tomoiu
Alyssa & Mike Panero
Drew Ballantyne
Rise Nation
Grit Boxing
Goldie's Tavern
Tootles and French
Brewery Bar
The Thirsty Koala
So Cute Tattoo Studio
Sean Curran
Kathy Fuchs
Stefan Tomoiu
Drew Ballantyne