As many of you know, my family has a very personal connection to ALS. Jeff Long was a successful business owner in Kansas City. He owned the first Earth Shoe Store in Westport from 1976 to 1978, and the Natural Wear women's clothing boutique from 1978 to 1988, when he had to sell it due to the ravages of ALS. Jeff, avid golfer, tennis player and runner before ALS, never gave up looking for a cure and fighting this terrible disease. Most importantly, Jeff was a beloved son and brother, he was my best friend and the father of our children, Ben, Annie and Andrew. After 7 long years of battling the disease, Jeff died at the young age of 42, leaving behind so many family and friends who dearly loved him and miss him to this day.
We walk in honor and memory of Jeff, and all those who have lost their lives and are currently battling this devastating disease.
The Keith Worthington Chapter of ALS here in Kansas City was integral in supporting Jeff, through volunteers, equipment, encouragement and love. Without it, he and our family would not have gotten through such a devastating diagnosis and the years spent coping with this disease.
Our family is so excited to be a part of this year's Walk to Defeat ALS. We know Jeff would be so happy to know that we are all doing it together! And Jeanne would be happy to know our families have joined together as a team to support The Keith Worthington Chapter of ALS in KC.
Why We Need Your Help
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. The life expectancy of an ALS patient 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.
This crippling disease can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease yet it still costs loved ones an average of $200,000 a year to provide the care ALS patients need. Help make a difference and donate or join a walk today.