When Donnie was first diagnosed with ALS it was shocking and scary. He had spent over a year going to doctor appointments and taking tests. The situation seemed grim but we always thought there would be a diagnosis with a solution, a treatment, a cure. With ALS we got none of those. There is no treatment or cure. The doctors tell you, "I'm sorry. There is only comfort care."
Before this chapter was started local ALS patients had almost no resources. They were sent home to die.
Thankfully, we have the Oregon & SW Washington Chapter of the ALS Association. They can't make ALS go away but they can make it possible for Donnie to live a life far beyond comfort care. They offer solutions, guidance, advice, loaner equipment, education, and social/emotional support to ALS patients, caregivers, and their loved ones.
Donnie's life would be incredibly diminished without the support of the Oregon & SW Washington ALSA.
Being a caregiver is the hardest job I have ever had. The demands of ALS are relentless. The support groups, in particular, give me a place to vent about the difficult parts of living with ALS and to pick up great advice that I can put into practice.
This last year, our local ALSA Chapter has been with us virtuallly as we learn how to deal with the corona virus and its dangers for an advanced ALS patient like Donnie.
We owe the ALSA a huge debt of gratitude. This is why we ride and raise money for them. To pay them back and to pay it forward to future ALS patients and their loved ones.
Will you join us? You can ride as part of Team Drafters and raise money for the ALS Association, or you can donate to my page, to any of our Drafters, or to any rider on any team. Every little bit helps.
Thank you for helping me reach my Ride to Defeat ALS fundraising goal!
Jan
Prefer to make a donation by check? Click here for a printable donation form!
