In 2018, my world changed in ways I never expected. In the fall of that year, my high school chorus teacher, mentor, and dear friend, Mark van Schenkhof, was diagnosed with ALS. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive disease of the nervous system that affects cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Mr. V, as we called him, suffered for about two years before he was officially diagnosed. I had been studying music privately with his wife, Carol, and became incredibly close with the two of them. At the time of the diagnosis, Mark and Carol were in their 60s and 70s with no children, and our relationship blossomed to the point where I felt as though they had welcomed me into their family.

At that time, I had just started my undergraduate degree hours away from Mark and Carol, but because of the unpredictability of ALS, I made a promise to visit Mr. V every time I was home. The disease continued to take over his body, and as soon as I graduated college, I made a standing “date” with them on the first Sunday of each month. For the next two years, I became acutely aware of the physical, mental, and emotional toll ALS takes on a person and their loved ones. At the same time, however, I saw firsthand the peace of mind and unwavering support that ALS United gives to a family during such trying times.

Since losing Mark on January 1, 2024, Carol has had only incredible things to say about ALS United NY. This organization gave my “family” support when they needed it most. While there is no way I could ever repay them for the generosity and support shown to Mark and Carol, it has been the honor of a lifetime to have the opportunity to fundraise and represent ALS United in the 2026 NYC Marathon.

Thank you for your support. LET’S FIND A CURE!