HELLO! 

Thanks for visiting my fundraising page for my dad's walk team. The Walk to Defeat ALS raises funds to support those affected by ALS and to spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure.

WHAT IS ALS?

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.

WHY AM I WALKING?

My dad was diagnosed with ALS in 2015 and passed away in 2017. My dad was my favorite person in the world, and I spent a lot of time taking care of him. I even spent the summer of my junior year of high school as his personal caregiver. Watching him be robbed of his ability to do basic tasks was painful, especially since I was so young at the time.

I am doing this for my dad. My dad was the strongest, coolest, most badass person I have ever met, and he deserved more time here. I deserved more time with him. ALS took so much away from him and from me, and if I can be a part of finding a cure through fundraising and walking, of course I'm going to do it.

WHAT DOES YOUR MONEY DO?

Donations to the Kammerer Kadets help contribute to local care service programs. My dad received equipment from the ALS Loan Closet when we couldn't afford it otherwise and the ALS United workers always took a personal interest in my dad and his ALS journey. Your donations will not only make a tangible impact on those living with ALS in the Cincinnati area, but also help fund global ALS research and nationwide advocacy for a cure.

HELP ME REACH MY GOAL!

Since I started walking, I have raised over $3,500 for a cure. From relentlessly posting on social media to holding an ice bucket challenge fundraiser through my sorority, fundraising for the walk each year has become a big part of my life. I'd love to reach my goal again this year! Any amount helps, so please consider donating :-)

Thanks for reading, and as always - KEEP FIGHTING FOR MATT.