The Walk to Defeat ALS® is an amazing opportunity for us to work together in support of those affected by Lou Gehrig's Disease and to spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure.

My mother, DeeDee Johnson, passed away on September 25, 2010 after a three year battle against ALS. She was 55 years old. At the time, my sister and I each had 15 month old daughters, our brother was an Undergrad and our youngest sibling had just begun his senior year of high school. ALS changed our family forever.

In 2014, The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge put the spotlight on ALS. Finally, the world was learning about this devastating disease. Since then, astounding research has lead to breakthroughs in advancing treatment and unlocking clues that may one day discover a cure.

Near the end of her fight, Mom needed 24 hour care and our young family fully relied on her caregivers, volunteers, our support groups and the equipment loan pools for help. The ALS Association was able to provide all of that support to us and more. Our family has been so blessed to have met so many wonderful people through the ALS Association and this is our way of giving back and helping those who now continue my mother's fight. 

Please consider walking with me or sponsoring my team. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease. I encourage you ask your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers to become involved! Every contribution helps improve the lives of others. EVERY DROP ADDS UP!

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 though support is bringing researchers closer to an answer. In the mean time it costs 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.

Thank you!