My name is Janise Degn and I am organizing this fundraiser for my brother-in-law Patrick and his family during an incredibly difficult time.

Patrick is the brother of my husband Christopher. The words that follow come directly from my husband’s heart:

Recently, my hero and brother Patrick was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

ALS is a relentless progressive disease that attacks the ability to move, speak, eat, and eventually breathe. There is currently no cure, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is 2–5 years—often shorter when respiratory symptoms are the first sign, as with Patrick.

As our family faces this challenge, we are asking for your help supporting Patrick and his family with the significant medical and travel expenses ahead.

Anyone who knows Patrick realizes that this diagnosis only further highlights his inspiring character. He danced at the weddings of his two daughters this past year and relishes playing competitive card games with his new sons-in-law. His sense of humor is undaunted, his laugh infectious, and his smile wide and warm.

Patrick is a deeply generous and selfless person. He has spent his life serving Jesus Christ through religious education, writing books on Christian principles, and lecturing on faith and spirituality. He has also led many tours throughout the Holy Land, inspiring countless students of Christianity and the Bible.

Patrick is a devoted husband and father. He and his wonderful wife have four beautiful children, with their first grandchild on the way. He is also one of eight siblings who love him dearly.

Our parents, Ralph and Mary Ann Degn, devoted years of their lives to missionary service in Brazil, including the remote Amazon basin. Patrick has always carried forward that same spirit of faith, service, and dedication.

Those who know Patrick know that he not only studies scripture— he LIVES it. I remember once when we brothers had gotten into trouble for repeating some mischief our father had perhaps unwisely told us about from his own youth. Matt and I, as Patrick’s older brothers, stood clueless and speechless while being reprimanded. Patrick, however—ever the scholar and strategist—piped up by quoting the book of John:

“The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.”

Our father was laughing too hard to discipline us, and even then we were grateful for Patrick’s mastery of scripture.

True to his character, Patrick has faced his diagnosis with humility and perspective. During my first conversation with him after he learned the news, while I was expressing sympathy he interrupted me and said, “But brother, what can I do for YOU?”

That simple moment captures Patrick’s character: selflessness, service, generosity, and humility.

Patrick himself has asked for nothing more than sincere prayers. But as his family walks this path with him, there are very real needs ahead. Treatments, specialized care, and travel for therapy create significant financial burdens that exceed his family’s current means.

Patrick has spent his life lifting others. Now we hope to lift him.

We humbly ask for your support to help provide Patrick required travel, access to treatment, and the blessing to spend cherished time with the people he loves most. Your generosity—no matter the amount—will help Patrick and his family focus on what matters most: faith, family, and the time his family shares together.

We are deeply grateful for the love and support of family, friends, and the many people whose lives Patrick has touched.

Thank you for helping us show Patrick just how much he has served his fellow man, and how much he means to all of us.

Right now Patrick is facing several urgent needs related to the progression of ALS, including:

• Ongoing medical expenses and specialized care

• Daily use of a non-invasive ventilator to assist with breathing

• A cough-assist ventilating machine

• A wheelchair and mobility equipment

• Moving expenses due to stairs in the current home

• Home accessibility modifications, including a wheelchair-accessible bathroom

• Support with home upkeep as his mobility declines

Patrick has spent his life lifting and serving others. Now we hope to lift him.

Any support—no matter the amount—will help Patrick and his family access the care they need and allow them to focus on what matters most: faith, family, and precious time together.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.