I was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in November of 2006. ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy. Most people with ALS die within 2-5 years of their diagnosis. The average age of onset for ALS is 52, but I was just 31 when I was diagnosed. I thought when I was diagnosed that my life was over. I had to quit my job. We had to move. Everything changed. But my family and friends have been amazingly supportive and have helped me to realize that I can still live my life fully and I can fight ALS.

I am determined to be here to watch my two children grow up. Our son Kai is 5 and our daughter Katie is 3. I want to be there for their first day of kindergarten and to see them grow up and have kids of their own. Please help me in my fight to be here for my kids and for their futures.

Whether or not you can walk with me, you can play an essential role by sponsoring me. Both walkers and donors directly impact the lives of those affected by ALS by providing the means to raise awareness and to offer the services needed to treat and defeat this disease.

Not only do proceeds from the Walk go to services that improve the day-to-day lives of ALS patients and their loved ones, but the money we fundraise is directed toward programs that look to the future. Promising research indicates that we are getting closer to finding treatment options and scientists are hopeful that a cure will one day be discovered.

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 ALS. I encourage you get your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers involved!

Thank you for visiting my walk site.