Thank you for helping me reach my Walk ALS Charlotte fundraising goal! The Walk ALS Charlotte raises funds to support the ALS community in North Carolina and to build ALS awareness to find treatments and a cure.

When I first participated in the ice bucket challenge, I never imagined ALS would touch me so deeply.

I am walking in memory of Carmen Schentrup, a kind, beautiful and bright young woman taken from her family & friends by a shooter at Parkland HS in 2018. After losing two people close to her from ALS she was determined to become a leading medical researcher and discover a cure for this devastating disease.

I am walking in memory of Bjorn Brennskag, a courageous, adventuresome, loving husband, father & friend, who lived life to the fullest, even hiking to Preikestolen cliff with the assistance of Onsketransporten, a non-profit organization.

I am walking in honor of Melanie Craig (my sister Patty's sister-in-law), who, despite having ALS overwhelm her family for decades, has faced this disease head-on,  working to raise awareness and funds to help find a cure for this devastating disease.

 I urge you to read Melanie's story on the Today Show website https://www.today.com/health/essay/familial-als-experience-rcna166914 

Her perseverance in spite of her daily struggles, and the love and support she is receiving from her husband, family and friends are awe-inspiring.  

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, talk, 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, at any age and there is still no known cause or cure.

Over the past few years, there have been advancements in ALS research, as well as expanded resources and access to care for people living with ALS.   But now, more than ever, we must keep the momentum going.  We need to continue to push for more treatments and find a cure for ALS.

Please consider joining me at the walk! We will walk and roll together, united with wheelchairs and scooters, families, neighbors and friends, strollers and pets – all are welcome!  If you can't make it to the walk, please consider making a donation. With your support, we can make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.

Thank you!