Team Wirtz: Walking Together to Defeat ALS

As some of you may know, my mom, Kathy Wirtz, was diagonosed with ALS in April of 2024.  My parents would come and visit us every Christmas and some of you have met them.  My parents have been married for 54 years and raised 11 children, 31 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild in Lakewood, Ohio. Known for her homemade banana bread, cherry cheesecake, sugar cookies and meatballs, Kathy is a devoted member of St. James Catholic Church and exemplifies faith through her actions. 

My uncle, Tony Polito, also battled ALS and passed away 5 years ago.  Our goals are to raise awareness about ALS, fund groundbreaking research to find a cure, and ensure that individuals and families affected by ALS receive the necessary care and resources. Every step we take is a testament to both Tony and Mom's courage and the collective effort of everyone who joins us in this fight. Together, we honor their strength, raise awareness about the disease, contribute to the search for a cure, and provide support to those in need.

Despite the challenges that ALS brings, mom has relied on her faith to remain strong and has put her life in God’s hands. Our family’s journey was highlighted on Cleveland.com on May 24, 2024, in the article “Kindland: Finding Kindness and Hope in the Cruel and As-Yet Incurable ALS Neurodegenerative Disease.”

You can support Team Wirtz and Team Polito in several ways: pray for our family, join our team for the ALS Walk, contribute to our fundraising efforts, or share our story and the importance of ALS research with your community. We are incredibly grateful for your support. Every contribution, whether it’s walking with us, donating, sharing our message or praying with us, brings hope to those affected by ALS. Together, we can make a difference.

Love & Prayers, 
Team Wirtz “Keep the Faith”