Our names are Rick and Deborah Emerson. We first met the Hammond family when the military moved us to Maryland in 2002. Perhaps it was their kindness, or maybe they reminded us of our own families. Their home has always sprinkled peace and love on all who visit.

We are organizing this fundraiser for our dear friend, Stig Hammond who has been battling ALS for three years.

This devastating disease, with no known cure, is also known as the ‘bankruptcy’ disease. It not only ravages your body but also puts stress on the finances of family and caregivers with the substantial costs of accessibility and care.

It is so heartbreaking to watch someone so incredibly vibrant go through this disease. It is even more heartbreaking - and yet heartwarming - to see his wife, Sharon standing firmly by his side through all of this. Their love for each other is amazing.

As you know, Stig is an extraordinary person who has lived an extraordinary life. He has inspired so many of us with his genuine love for his family and friends. He has so many talents from being an amazing singer and musician to a witty and intellectual computer genius, writer, and athlete. More importantly, he is an incredible Dad to Leah and Maya. But we have learned that he is also a fighter and is facing this disease head-on.

But now he needs our help.

The costs of purchasing a Perimobil power wheelchair and an accessible vehicle are expensive.

Asking for help is so incredibly hard for the Hammond family. But because we care about this family and we don’t want them to incur the massive debt that many families do, they have allowed us to put together this fundraiser.

So now it’s our turn to give back. Please donate what you can to help ease their financial burden and allow Stig and his family some breathing space to stay focused on managing his health and cherish every moment they have together.

Thank you so much,

Rick and Deborah