Hello and thank you so much for coming here to consider helping our sweet daughter/sister, Amy. We are raising money because that is essential to improving Amy’s quality of life. We cannot change the fact that ALS is a debilitating disease and often terminal in two to five years, but we can raise funds with your help that could ease some of the physical, emotional, and financial pain this devastating disease has caused our sweet loving sister.

Amy’s diagnosis evolved slowly like most people with this terrible disease.  Last spring Amy noticed her hands were feeling stiff and a little weak.  As her symptoms increased Amy saw a doctor who did a lot of bloodwork and found nothing, chalking the symptoms up to arthritis.  Two months later, as her arm strength decreased, she was referred to a neurologist who conducted the three tests that are used to diagnose ALS.  An MRI with contrast, an EMG, and an EKG confirmed our greatest fears, the test results indicated that Amy had ALS. Amy was referred to Dr. Robert Neel, a neurologist who specializes in ALS at UC Health.  Dr. Neel concurred with the prior diagnosis of ALS.  Amy went to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota in February to get another opinion.  The results were the same and all our hearts broke all over again.  We hope she will get the opportunity to participate in some clinical trials at Boston Mass General hospital in the future. 

Our goal is to raise money to cover the many medical expenses not covered by insurance.  Amy is already having difficulty going up the stairs and renovations to the first floor of her home are already in process. The expense of the equipment needed to support Amy is tremendous and so much is not covered by insurance.  Much of the mobility equipment has to be custom fit and can’t be purchased used.

In between the many doctor appointments, tears, and daily business calls we still see the blessings that each day holds. As we gather the tools, information, and plans needed for this journey, we are faced with the reality that time moves quickly in the ALS world.  If you know Amy, it will come as no surprise to you that her three beautiful children; Jacob, Blake, and Isabella, are her number one priority.  There are so many things she would like to do with them while she is able to do so.  Some of the funds raised will be used to give Amy and Jason the ability to make some good memories together as a family.

Amy has shown so much strength and courage in these first five months. She is accepting the sorrow, pain, and suffering that comes with a diagnosis of ALS. Her ability to show us what grace looks likes amidst great heartbreak inspires us daily.  She wants people to know she sees God’s hand in her suffering and she feels Him in your love and support. Our Dad has always sung the Frank Sinatra song “Once in love with Amy.” That song never rang more true for us today as we prepare our hearts and minds to help carry this cross with our sister/daughter.  Through Always loving Amy, you can help. We ask that you continue to pray for Amy, our families, and the medical team that is caring for her. 

If you have any ideas for fundraising or ways to help Amy please contact us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering helping Amy.




Best,
JB, Judy, Lara, Tracy, and Tony