Michelle Ross
Welcome to My Fundraising Page
Event: | Northwest Arkansas Walk |
Date: | Sunday, June 9, 2024 - Virtual |
Team: | Familial Fighters |
On March 19, 2024 I received results from gene testing that I have a fully mutated C9orf72 gene. My older sister also has the gene. Two cousins who have been tested have the gene. We have lost six family members to this horrible disease thus far. While research is ongoing and there are some promising treatments being researched, more is still needed. We need a cure! We participate, not just for our family, but for all who are impacted by this horrible disease. Help make a difference and donate. All donations stay with the Arkansas ALS Chapter and research.
Familial Amyotophic Lateral Sclerosis, or FALS accounts for 10% of all ALS cases. While this number may be small, it is a very big deal to those of us who live in that 10%. To watch multiple family members succumb to this disease inflicts a fear that cannot be adequately described. “Have I got the gene?,” “Did I pass it on to my children?,” are common questions we ask ourselves. We don't wallow in that fear, but it is a very real presence.
To date, five members of our maternal side of the family have passed away from ALS. My mother was the most recent loss in October 2017. Two cousins and my older sister have all opted to be tested for the defective gene and were all found to be carrying it. Carrying it does not mean any of them will develop ALS, but it does mean there is a 50% chance they have passed that gene on to their own children.
We, the Familial Fighters, walk to raise money for a cure so maybe our children won't have to face those same fears. Every donation goes to our local ALS chapter, which not only puts money towards researching a cure, but also helps local families with equipment, medical expenses, counseling, and so much more that is needed during the progression of the disease. Please consider donating and/or joining our team!
Why We Need Your Help
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe. The life expectancy of a person with ALS averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis.
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.
ALS can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease, though support is bringing researchers closer to an answer. In the meantime it costs an average of $250,000 a year to provide the care people living with ALS and their families need. Join the movement to bring help and hope today!
If you think this page contains objectionable content, please inform the system administrator.
Check out the badges I've earned
![](../walk2018/img/ALSA_Walk_badges_Lvl1-grey.png)
![](../walk2018/img/ALSA_Walk_badges_Alum.png)
Be the first to donate to Michelle
Add your name to my donor list!
Prefer to make a donation by check? Download our printable donation form and mail it in!
If you think this page contains objectionable content, please inform the system administrator.