We’re raising funds for Jimmy Sockol, a beloved husband, father, and friend who was recently diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). This devastating diagnosis will dramatically change Jimmy’s life and the lives of his family: his wife and their two adult sons, both of whom have autism and rely on consistent support and a stable home environment.
Why we need your help: ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that changes the lives of those suffering with it, and their loved ones, forever. Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, this rare and fatal condition affects people’s nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain over time with heartbreaking consequences. It stops people’s ability to walk, speak, and even breathe. ALS progresses quickly and unpredictably. In the months and years ahead, Jimmy and his family will face mounting medical and home‑adaptation costs, reductions in household income, and new care needs that insurance won’t fully cover. Your support will help ensure Jimmy and his family can focus on what matters most: being together and getting the care they need instead of facing financial hardship.
How donations will be used (anticipated costs): All funds will go directly to Jimmy and his family for urgent and ongoing needs, including:
- Home modifications to make the house accessible and safe (ramps, widened doorways)
- Bathroom remodel & Update Wiring in Primary Bedroom for medical equipment $40,000
- Medical equipment not covered by insurance (hospital bed, wheelchair, eye gaze devices that will allow Jim to communicate when he loses his ability to speak, adaptive devices, etc.)
- Vehicle modifications or an accessible vehicle
- In‑home caregiving and respite care to help care for Jimmy and support the family’s routine, especially for the two adult sons with autism
- Ongoing living expenses (mortgage/rent, utilities, groceries, and other essentials) when Jimmy’s ability to work is reduced
- Therapy, counseling, or specialized services that will help the family navigate this transition
Our goal: We’ve set an initial fundraising goal of $150,000 to help cover immediate and long term costs. Any amount raised beyond that will continue to support long‑term care, home adaptations, and stability for the family. If you have any questions about specific needs, please reach out. We will provide regular updates.
About Jimmy: Jimmy is a devoted family man who has always shown kindness and strength to those around him. He’s always the first guy to show up to offer his services: Need help moving? Need to move furniture? Need some yard work done? Need help fixing a door? Need a ride? He’s always ready and willing to help. Jimmy is funny and personable, he is a wonderful person to spend time with and he is a loving husband, father, and friend. While this diagnosis is frightening, Jimmy and his family are resilient, and they’re surrounded by a loving community who wants to help them through this next chapter.
How you can help:
- Donate what you can. Every gift, large or small, makes a difference.
- Share this page with friends, family, social networks, and local groups.
- Offer practical support if you’re local: meal trains, transportation help, helping with household duties Jimmy is no longer able to complete (gardening, moving boxes and furniture) caregiving assistance, or short‑term respite for the family. Please feel free to message us for details.
Transparency and updates: We are committed to using funds responsibly and will post regular updates here about how donations are being used and the family’s needs as they evolve.
Thank you: From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read Jimmy’s story, for any donation you can make, and for sharing this campaign. Your support brings comfort, stability, and hope to a family navigating an overwhelming diagnosis.
With Gratitude,
The Sockol Family
Organizer and beneficiary
June Sockol
Beneficiary