Hi my name is Mary Marino and I am a Junior at Sacred Heart Academy. On September 23, 2023 I will be walking to defeat ALS at Eisenhower Park. My Grammy suffered and died from ALS. Raising awareness and funding for research for ALS has become my passion. In the eleven years I knew my Grammy she was confined to a wheelchair. I never got to hear her voice, see her walk, or enjoy a meal with her. Even so I had so much love for her, and always felt how much love she had for me. Her undeniable spirit and zest for life even in the hardest of times is what drives me to continue to fight on her behalf.

 

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, 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, and presently there is no known cause or cure.

 

That's why I'm walking. To change the statistics. To bring help and hope to those living with the disease. To ensure that no one ever hears the words: "You have ALS" again and that no one has to watch a loved one suffer with this disease. 

 

The past three years have brought incredible advancements in ALS research, expanded access to care for people living with ALS, and enabled legislation that impacts the quality of life of people with ALS and their families. 

 

But we can't stop now! The key to a cure begins with you! 

 

Please sponsor me and feel free to join me in my walk! With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.