Walking to Defeat ALS on May 4th

Hi Readers,

Tomorrow, my husband and I will be walking up the west side of Manhattan with our kids, along with a few friends, in memory of my dearly departed sister, Beth, and raising both awareness about ALS and funds for the ALS Association as we do so.

The ALS Association was of great help to our family during Beth’s illness and even after, when they provided grief counseling. The money we are raising goes to patient services, advocacy, research, clinical trials, and counseling.

We’ve raised nearly $3000 for this walk, which surpasses the goal that we established for our team, the Phillips 66.

I’m still trying to raise another $240 to make my personal goal.  If you want to read more about the race and walk with us tomorrow, or make a donation this is the link to our team page.

I decided to do this walk at the last minute. I haven’t walked for the ALS Association in several years. I guess that raising money seems less desperate now that we have already lost Beth. Our team also did such a great job of fundraising in 2009* that I am realized that I’ve been reluctant because I won’t be able to achieve that goal again. But that seems to be letting my ego rule my actions. Staying involved and helping families who need help should be more important than that. And finding a positive way to deal with my sister’s death is definitely sort of a salve.

*and also in 2010, but I was not able to be present at that walk, which was in CT — my parents spearheaded that effort