WHY I WALK 

My name is Gerardo and this is my third year participating in this walk. I was diagnosed in May 2022 and my life changed forever. I was at the peak of my academic career and about to celebrate a big wedding that had been postponed because of the pandemic. A few months after finding out what type of disease I had, I sought help from the ALS Network. They were so supportive and quickly provided so much information. I have been given a sliding shower chair, commode, a loaner power wheelchair, loaner hoyer lift. This is very personal to me because of how grateful I am that this organization is always ready to help me along every step of this journey. The Walk & Roll to Cure ALS is also very important to me, as it raises funds to support those affected by ALS (like me) and to spread awareness of the urgency to find effective treatments and cures.

What is ALS?  

Often referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, ALS is a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disease that slowly robs a person of their ability to walk, speak, swallow, and, eventually, to breathe. 

Why We Urgently Need Your Help

I want to live. I want a chance to live. Time has been my greatest ally but also my worst enemy. In my case, this disease has already robbed my of my ability to walk, move my arms, eat/drink (I have a G-tube), and talk. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, gender, or socioeconomic boundaries.

1. The average life expectancy of a person with ALS is two to five years from the time of diagnosis.
2. ALS can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of the disease. Someone you know or love may be diagnosed in their lifetime.
3. For unknown reasons, military veterans are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease than the general public.
4. Caring for a loved one with ALS can cost an average of over $200,000 each year.

Your Impact

Everything the ALS Network does ensures access to essential care services, free of charge, and accelerates the search for effective prevention strategies, treatments and cures for ALS.  Fundraising and awareness are essential to fueling this progress. Every dollar and every message counts.

Please contribute today by clicking on the 'DONATE' button on the top right side of this page. If you prefer to mail in a check, click on the link for the "printable donation form" below.  Let's cure ALS together!