Thank you for helping me reach my Walk to Defeat ALS(TM) fundraising goal! This is an exciting opportunity for us to work together to support those affected by Lou Gehrig's Disease and to spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure.
Please consider walking with me or sponsoring me. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease. I encourage you get your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers involved!
My family was first touched by ALS in 2004 when my sister, Joanne Maggio was diagnosed. Sadly, she is with us now only in our hearts. On December 11, 2006 she lost her two-year battle with ALS. We watched helplessly as this disease slowly took her ability to walk, talk, eat and ultimately her life. We were forced to face this cruel disease once again in 2012 when my sister Pat (Patricia Ryan, more affectionately known as "AP") was diagnosed that February. She would battle the disease until it took her life as well on August 28 of that same year.
My family and I are devoted to helping other families who are currently struggling with this horrific disease. By donating to our team, you can help make a difference in the lives of all ALS patients and their families. Since 2004 our team has been actively involved in fundraising for the ALS Association Connecticut Chapter. Their staff helps families in their day-to-day struggle with ALS. They offer many crucial programs to people in our area who are currently struggling with ALS. In particular, the chapter's loan closet includes medical and speech equipment that would otherwise cost a family thousands of dollars. All of those services are offered free of charge and are funded through donations, grants and events such as the Walk to D'Feet ALS. With our combined commitment and passion we are one step closer to a cure. Thank you again for your support!
Health to All,
Marie E. DeSousa
