Several years ago when we were living in New Jersey, I worked with a man named Darin Miller. He was a school social worker and he was funny, energetic and very kind. In 2006 I lost touch with Darin when my family moved to Virginia. But you have to know that through Facebook and "suggested friends" we reconnected. However it was a reconnect of mixed emotions. I was shocked and saddened to learn Darin had been diagnosed in March 2007 with ALS at the age of 39.
I started reading up on ALS which stands for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. You may have heard it called Lou Gehrig's Disease. The first thing I read was from Darin's personal blog,
"Some facts you should know about ALS. ALS involves muscle weakness, wasting and paralysis of the muscles of the limbs and trunk as well as those that control speech, swallowing and later breathing. Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year. It is estimated that as many as 30,000 Americans may have the disease at any given time. The life expectancy of an ALS patient averages about two to five years from the time of diagnosis. There is no CURE!"
Darin, along with his family and some friends, have created a walking team -- The ALS Wingfighters. I wasn't able to participate last year, but this year I've made that commitment and joined Darin's team. I'll be going to Philadelphia to walk on November 5, 2011. I have set a goal for myself to try and raise $500 to support the fight against ALS.
I would really, really, really appreciate your support. I'd love it if you could make a small financial contribution -- as little as $5.oo would be a great help.
You can easily donate by clicking ---> DONATE HERE,
which will take you to my Walk to Defeat ALS site.
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