Almost 2 years ago, on February 7, my dad was diagnosed with ALS. It had taken us about 2 months of tests to figure out what was wrong; blood draws, MRIs, CT scans, multiple doctors, nerve conduction tests, and more. Everything came back normal, so with the test results and his symptoms, the conclusion is the least fair of all possibilities- ALS.

Then almost 1 year ago, on February 24, 2020, we lost my dad to ALS. In the year and 17 days that he lived after being diagnosed, we watched him slowly lose all independence. My dad went from being the caretaker of my mom and our family, to being taken care of by my mom and our family. He lost his ability to feed himself, walk, talk and eventually breath. He was strong and brave, and kept his great smile until the very end.

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, like my dad. 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.