Thank you for your support!
I will be participating in the Golden West Chapter of The ALS Association's Napa Valley Ride to Defeat ALS. I am riding to support those affected by Lou Gehrig's Disease and to spread awareness for the urgency to find treatments and a cure.
I am also riding because a great mentor and friend, Jim Hoelter, suffered and passed away from this terrible disease. The last time I saw Jim we discussed the lack of significant progress in addressing ALS. He agreed and added that he sent his monthly social security checks to the ALS Association so that others might one day not similarly suffer. As was typical and so hugely admirable of Jim, he said this with a smile and no hint of remorse or regret. I hope to raise enough to replace one or two of the social security checks that he is no longer sending.
Following are some facts about ALS for your information:
1. Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and another person loses their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries.
2. The average life expectancy of an ALS patient is two to five years from the time of diagnosis.
3. ALS can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease. Someone you know or love may die from ALS unless a cure is found.
4. Caring for a loved one with ALS costs an average of $200,000 per year.
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!
