In the spring of 2016, my husband Paul’s brother Barry was diagnosed with ALS. Barry spent years walking to raise money to find a cure for breast cancer, so it was only natural that we find a walk to raise money to find a cure for ALS. In the fall of 2016, we participated in our first walk at the Detroit Zoo. That 2016 ALS walk was Barry’s only one. He passed away in 2017. Many of his family members have continued participating in the ALS walk every year as a way to remember Barry and raise money for an important cause. This year Paul and I moved to Grand Rapids and we’ll be participating in the ALS walk at Millennium Park.
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. ALS can strike anyone, and presently there is no known cause or cure.
That’s why I’m walking. To change the statistics. To bring help and hope to those living with the disease. To ensure that no one ever hears the words: “You Have ALS” again.
The past two years have brought incredible advancements in ALS research, expanded access to care for people living with ALS, and enabled legislation that impacts the quality of life of people with ALS and their families.
But, we can’t stop now. The key to a cure begins with you.
Please consider walking with me or sponsoring me. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.