If I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened

           pathway of another,..

    If  I can wipe from any human cheek a tear,

            I shall not have lived my life in vain while here. -anon

Marty Allen was my best friend.  Diagnosed with ALS, he chose to live his days with great courage, gratitude for every day, and a wonderful sense of humor.  Marty passed away on July 29, 2003 and not a moment goes by that I don't miss him like crazy. 

I met Bill Hamley in my pursuit of raising ALS awareness in Marty's name.  14 years ago, Bill joined me in rallying a team of Quinnipiac Physical Therapy Students.  Not only did he inspire them as he shared his progression of the illness but they gave him strength and courage because he saw he was "making a difference".  To Bill that was so important.  In December 2014, Bill lost his battle with ALS but he didn't really lose because of all of those who he touched and all of those who continue the battle in his honor. 

17 years ago, Marty captained a team for the Walk to D'Feet ALS.  He named it the Wizards of ALS, knowing of my love for the Wizard of Oz and the fact that our friendship was so like that of Dorothy and the Scarecrow - short, intense, and filled with joy.  Marty's team, that year, raised over $3500.  17 years ago, Marty was out there with the walkers, cutting the ribbon to start the walk, enjoying the surroundings, and reveling in the love and support of his friends.  14 years ago, Bill was walking amongst a see of green Bill's Team tee shirts.  Last year we made a slight change, more QU appropriate, and become Bill's Bobcats.

 It was Marty's wish and Bill's wish that their teams be a continued success in the fight against the disease which robbed them of a long life.  Marty's Team and Bill's Bobcats although with two different names are really part of the same "circle"  On Sunday, Octobe 6th, Bill's Bobcats, who have all become embraced into Marty's circle, will walk at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven - ribbon cutting and start time at 10 AM.   On Saturday, October 19th, Marty's team, Wizards of ALS, will also walk  in the Westport Walk to D'Feet ALS. 

Although neither Marty nor Bill, will be physically at my side while I walk, I know their spirits will be there, walking among us and cheering us on.  The fight against ALS continues.  There are others who need help - I need your help.  We would love to have you join the team either in Westport (Wizards of ALS) or New Haven (Bill's Bobcats).  If you cannot walk, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the ALS Association and do check if your company does matching donations.

Together we can make a difference and bring hope and support to others like Marty and Bill.

"The soul would have no rainbow, had the eyes no tears"  Marty will always be my rainbow.

   Thank you for your support!

                                                    Love always, Lynn