DeeDee's Laughter and Joy (Team DLJ) walks in memory of DeeDee Johnson who courageously ended her battle with ALS on September 25, 2010.

Thanks to the incredible donations received since our first walk in 2011, Team DLJ has raised over $50,000 for patients and families living with ALS! All donations from the Walk to Defeat ALS® go toward patient care services, such as providing resources and equipment to families living with ALS, and also toward research in an effort to find a cure and to improve the lives of those fighting this disease. EVERY DROP ADDS UP!

Please consider joining our team in the Walk to Defeat ALS® or choose a team member from the list and donate to Team DLJ. This year, The Twin Cities Walk will be held on September 7, 2024 at the Mall of America.

DeeDee's Story

After tirelessly searching for answers that would explain her sudden inability to speak or swallow, DeeDee ended her battle with ALS just two short years after receiving her diagnosis. Those who knew DeeDee will remember her as a passionate and caring woman who always gave 110% and never gave up. A mother of four children, DeeDee celebrated her daughter's wedding and became a Grandmother all while fighting this terrible disease. Her youngest son had just begun his senior year of high school when DeeDee's journey came to an end. Many milestones have gone by and many more are to come, but she will always remain in our hearts and prayers. 

DeeDee's sister, Cheryl LeBeau, was diagnosed with ALS in 2014. Her symptoms were quite different than DeeDee's and yet it took equally as long to arrive at a formal diagnosis. This devastating disease has hit our family twice and yet we remain hopeful becuase we know that we are on the edge of advanced treatments, and possibly a cure. Cheryl's battle with ALS ended suddenly in May 2016.

Together we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Our team is committed to raising money to support people in our community with ALS and spread awareness of the urgency to find treatment and a cure.

Thank you for your participation and on-going support!

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.