Hello Friends and Family,
My dear friend, Cathy Everson, was diagnosed with ALS in December 2021. She and I have known each other for more than 55 years. We were first classmates at Tricia's Little Folks Nursery School in Bakersfield, and then attended K-12 and UC Berkeley (where we joined the same sorority) together. I remember quick bike rides to her house, her fantastic swimming pool, lemonade stands on Mrs. Haberkern's corner, and churning homemade ice cream at family gatherings (Cathy is an expert at this ;-). While distance has separated us as adults, trips and events have brought us together. My heart breaks when I think of her diagnosis. I would be so grateful if you could help me support her and other victims of this devastating illness by making a donation to Defeat ALS.
Why I Run...
I will be participating in the Jim Tracy 5k to Defeat ALS. I run to support those affected by Lou Gehrig's Disease and to spread awareness for the urgency to find treatments and a cure.
What is ALS?
Often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe.
Why We Need Your Help
Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries.
1. The average life expectancy of an ALS patient is two to five years from the time of diagnosis.
2. Every 90 minutes someone in this country is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease.
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 on average of $300,000 each year.
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!
