This is an important issue for me. Many of you know that my wife Marge had been ill for 15 months. In October of 2014, she was diagnosed with ALS.  In November 2015, she passed away.  That was less than a week after our first walk.  This month, it will be 10 years since our family received that diagnosis.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a deadly illness with no known cause or cure. It affects the motor neurons in a person's brain and spinal cord. When the motor neurons die, the muscles waste away. Marge was robbed of the ability to walk, speak, eat, or to breathe without the use of a respirator. Upon diagnosis, doctors give ALS patients only two to five years to live.  Marge did not even meet the minimum.

And that's why I'm walking Saturday October 14th – for those who can't. 

If you would like to walk with me, we would love for you to join us!  We will meet on the National Mall, near the Washington Monument.  Check in begins at 9:30am. 

Progress is being made to make ALS a more livable disease.  By making a one-time, tax-deductible donation, you can truly make a difference in the fight against ALS.  Any amount you feel comfortable giving is deeply appreciated. Every dime makes a difference! With your support, we can make a positive impact today in the lives of those living with Lou Gehrig's Disease. Just click on the red button on the top right that says, "Donate to Joseph!"  Obviously, the money you donate can no longer help Marge, but perhaps will spare some other families from going through the experience that we have. Perhaps it will even be your own family.

P.S. Feel free to share this information with as many people as possible and encourage them to donate, too! Just share the following link: http://web.alsa.org/goto/joecuddihy2023