Three years ago, my mamma was diagnosed with ALS. Since then, we have watched this disease slowly take away so many of the things she once did without a second thought. This past year, in particular, has changed our lives in ways I never could have imagined. She has become completely dependent on others for her daily care, and our family has had to learn how to navigate a life that looks very different than the one we knew before.

But ALS has not taken away who my mamma is.

She is still the heart of our family. She still finds ways to smile, laugh, love, and make the most of every moment. And while this disease has changed so much, it has also taught us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and cherish the time we have together.

I am participating in ALS United Greater New York’s WALK ALS at Eisenhower Park on September 19th because I want to turn some of the heartbreak of this disease into hope.

I’m walking for my mamma. I’m walking for our family. And I’m walking for every person living with ALS and every caregiver and family member who has had their lives changed by this devastating disease.

ALS takes away independence piece by piece. It will take away the ability to walk, talk, eat, breathe, and care for yourself. And right now, there is still no cure.

Your support can make a real difference. Donations help provide critical resources and services to families living with ALS, support research for better treatments, and bring us closer to a future where an ALS diagnosis doesn’t have to mean losing so much.

If you are able, please consider donating to my WALK ALS fundraiser. Every donation, no matter the size, means so much to our family and helps give hope to those facing ALS.

Most importantly, thank you for loving and supporting my mamma through this journey. We are choosing to live every moment with her, to find joy wherever we can, and to keep fighting for a future without ALS.

For my mamma. For our family. For a cure. ❤