On 9/22/2024, I will be at Winton Woods Park for the WalkALS, my seventh without my husband, Matt.  I will be joined by my sister, Maria Donisi, who once again is captaining our team, the Kammerer Kadets.  We walk in honor of Matt and our cousin, Jim Stethem who died of ALS on 11/10/2003.

 

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe.  My husband, Matt was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (aka ALS) on 2/28/2015 and fought it until the day he died just under 34 months later.  Average life expectancy from time of diagnosis is 2 - 5 years so every day counts!  On his last day, Matt spent 12 hours in his power wheelchair to drive 112 miles one way for a study drug trial appointment. Upon learning the drug company had decided to cease production of the medication, he volunteered to continue so as to provide information to the research scientists.

 

That's why I'll never give up!  I can't top Matt's courage or tenacity but I can make him proud by continuing his fight through the annual walk.  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.  

 

Please walk with me, sponsor me or pray for us all that the key to unlocking the mystery of ALS is found!  With your help, we are making a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.