Want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money to benefit Susan Mast ALS Foundation, and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.
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As many of you know, I have been a runner for over 20 years. My first marathon was in 2003, the New York City Marathon! I lived there at the time, with my best friend, Glory. It was before I met my husband, and I was trying to find myself.... whatever that means! The marathon was brutal. I did not run very well. But it sparked the desire to do it again, and better. And since then, I've ran 7 more marathons, and countless half marathons and other races. I am the happiest when I run. It's such a part of me that I am grateful daily (and pray as often) for it to continue to be a part of my life.
My friend Glory, and her husband, Joe, were my crew in New York. They were of course there to watch me run the marathon too... We did everything together. There are so many memories - good times and bad. We've shared them all.
Joe passed away in November 2020 of PLS. Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS) is the fraternal twin to ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. PLS is not supposed to be fatal, and most often is slow progressing. However, this was not the case for Joe. The disease had a rapid progression for him. He and his family went through an extremely difficult few years. Glory and Joe have two boys, now almost 15 and 13. Their names are Damien and Derek. They have all experienced this together, and it has forever changed them. Their strength, love, and compassion for Joe during his illness was unwavering. And their life and attitudes now amaze me. The human spirit is a remarkable thing. During their journey, the Susan Mast ALS Foundation was an invaluable resource for them. They provided not only physical necessities like an electric wheelchair and other devices needed to support Joe, but also emotional support and guidance to their family. For this reason, I’ve chosen to use my race as a means to bring awareness to this wonderful organization. I could never thank them enough for how they helped my friends. I’d like to help them continue to help so many in need.
Because of my love of running and desire to push myself and do bigger things, I've decided to run an ultramarathon. It's been on my bucket list for a long time.... so when there is one in your backyard..... well I guess you have to give it a go! On October 30, 2021, I will run the Killer Creek 50k trail race in my hometown of Waxhaw, NC. Glory, Damien and Derek will be here to support me, as well as other close friends from Michigan and local friends and family!
I would like to ask anyone who is touched by this story to please consider donating to gofundme.com in honor of Joe and his family. All proceeds will go directly to the Susan Mast Foundation. You also have the option to make a tribute donation to the Susan Mast Foundation in Joe LeDu's name.
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More information about Susan Mast ALS Foundation: The Mission Of The Susan Mast Als Foundation Is To Provide Excellent Support To Als Patients, Families And Caregivers Living In West Michigan. Our Services Focus On All Areas Of Need For The Regional Als Community, With Special Emphasis On Respite Care.
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