It started with spasms in his chest muscles and then the realization that he was losing weight, a lot of weight. That’s what compelled Dave to spend much of 2020 going from doctor to doctor searching for answers. Test after test, poked and prodded, ruling out a number of diseases along the way until finally in May of 2021 the verdict was reached. ALS.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, was the worst possible option. It gradually causes paralysis of all the voluntary muscles until finally you are bedridden without even the ability to speak, move and eventually breath. Most people with ALS live only 3–5 years. There is no cure. For information on ALS please visit /www.als.org.

Dave is currently on short-term disability with the expectation of moving to long-term disability in November 2021. Dave is now unable to work due to the debilitating nature of this disease.

ALS patients rely heavily on caregivers from the onset of the disease. Debbie is Dave’s primary caregiver and is fortunate to be able to stay at home with him. As the primary caregiver, Debbie will rely on specialized equipment to feed, clothe, bathe and transport Dave. While insurance covers some costs, they only cover what is deemed “medically necessary”. All other costs will be Dave and Debbie’s responsibility.

Dave will need to live in the ground level basement for easy outdoor access, but they need to remodel the downstairs bathroom to be ADA compliant. Some friends and companies have already offered to contribute materials and labor toward the remodel. The McNeil’s will also need a wheelchair accessible van. Insurance doesn’t cover any remodeling or the cost of a van. Special equipment like motorized wheelchairs, hoyer lifts and hospital beds are covered by insurance excluding features that greatly assist in the care of an ALS patient. The non-covered features make it more comfortable for the patient and easier for the caregiver.

Ok now that we have the facts out there, we need to rally around this special family. We NEED to take some worries off the table for Dave and Debbie. When you are faced with this kind of diagnosis, you wonder how much you will need to make your money stretch and how  will you meet the expenses.  Lets take some of that worry away and let them spend their time loving each other and their girls and grandkids. It's time to show them some love and get these donations going. 

Please consider supporting Dave and Debbie as they navigate this difficult journey.

Thank you,
Gary and Belinda Endicott