As most of you know, my sister Resi, Teresa Gardner Golding Roberts, died of ALS twenty years ago at the age of 45. She has missed so much since her death: Jonathan (Harvard), Patrick (WFU), and Katherine's (WFU) college graduations; Patrick and Lindsey's, Jonathan and Emily's, and Katherine and Will's weddings. She's missed the births of two grandchildren, Elizabeth (Billie) Roberts and James Sorin, and Jon's retirement from a hugely successful career with CVS. Yes, Resi has missed so much. And we miss Resi so much. Every day.

I have been involved in ALS United NC since Resi’s diagnosis. It’s been my therapy and tribute to her. I am very proud to be a part of a Chapter that supports six muti-disciplinary clinics which bring together a team of specially-trained health care professionals (neurologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, respiratory therapist, nurse, dietitian, speech language pathologist, social worker, mental health professional and an ALS United liaison) who can address the many needs of people living with ALS, allowing them to receive care from each discipline during a single visit. In addition, the ALS United NC supports research and advocacy, organizes support groups, provides transportation assistance, runs an Equipment Loan Bank, and assists in finding and obtaining community and government resources. That’s a lot!

This is my twenty-first - I think - Walk ALS, and I am again asking for your support of my team, Resi's Pieces. This year I won't be trekking around Symphony Park in Charlotte with my usual Walk buddies. Instead, I will be getting my steps in long-distance in Richmond, where I'll be attending Richard's 50th Hermitage High School reunion. But I will be walking nonetheless in Resi’s memory.

Please donate! The amount is not important. Your support is what counts. To me and those living with ALS

PS - My team's name is Resi's Pieces because Resi loved candy! Only Resi - kitchen canisters labelled flour, sugar, etc were filled with M&Ms, Reeses Pieces, etc. That is the truth!