Dear Friends and Family,

Every year the ALS Association recognizes May as the month of creating awareness to the disease called ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease.  Most of you are aware that I lost my brother, Steve Marino in 2012 to this horrific disease.  You have seen first hand or heard what this disease did to Steve, a very strong, healthy, virile young man who, at the end of his life, had no use of his arms, legs or voice, but his mind was still very much intact.  He became a prisoner in his own body and no one could have fought harder to FIGHT this disease. 

For the last 11 years, Team WinTheFight has raised over $348,000 towards the fight against ALS in memory of Steve  This year the walk will be at Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY on Sunday June 3rd and I will be walking virtually.

To make the most of your donation, please ask your company’s human resource department about their matching gift policy. Most corporations will match or even double you contribution, and in this fight, every little bit counts! With your support, we can make a positive impact today in the fight to defeat ALS. 

I would very much appreciate if you would re-post this letter on your Facebook page so we can reach as many people as possible. I have also attached a link to a video that my son Matthew put together to honor his uncle:  It is a true depiction of how much Steve loved life.: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlUyNw7rPLk&feature=player_embedded  Steve lost his battle against ALS, but together we can continue his "fight"! 

Every year 5,600 people are diagnosed with ALS. It is estimated that as many as 30,000 Americans have the disease at any given time. The money you donate not only funds cutting-edge research, but it also provides critical programs for families affected by ALS.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter; together we CAN make a difference in the life of someone suffering from ALS!

Sincerely,

Lorraine (Steve's sister)