Hi Everyone,

Our hearts weigh heavy as we share the unfortunate reality - that Nathan, our beloved Nae Nae has finally received an official diagnosis for all of the issues that have presented themselves within the most recent months prior to now. Bulbar onset ALS. This unfair, cruel and aggressive form of ALS attacks the muscles that control speech, swallowing, and breathing, with further progression of the disease leading to the inability to do any of these things on his own. With no cure avail for those diagnosed with ALS, it is a disease no one, along with their family ever prepares to face, yet here we are - as we all stand with Nathan as he begins this battle.

If you know Nathan, then you know what a light he is. He’s the kind of person who would give anything he had, to make sure someone else had whatever it was they needed. He was (and still is), beyond willing to help any and everyone he has known. With a big heart and a love for the outdoors, fishing and his family - Nae is as kind hearted as they come! He has a gift for making people feel seen and loved, and now it’s our turn to show him that same love and support back.

Nae is so much more than this diagnosis. He is strong and smart. An honest, hardworking, god-fearing man. He is a loving father who stepped in when he didn’t have to, an amazing husband to his wife Sue, a grandpa that spoils his grandbabies, a brother, a son, and a loyal friend. He’s the person who has always shown up, always cared, has a solution for everything (and if he doesn’t, he will figure one out!), and who makes the best butterbeans, Mac and cheese, pies and homemade classic southern foods. Nathan has always been strong, caring, and full of enthusiasm. The kind of person you feel lucky to know. That’s why this journey is not just his to walk alone. It will be one he walks, with all of us who love him, by his side.

ALS is one of those diagnosis that changes everyone’s life. Along with the emotional toll, there are new and overwhelming paths to walk down, while on the ALS journey together.

• Frequent medical appointments and treatments

• Specialized equipment to help him stay safe and comfortable

• Modifications to daily life and home needs

• Everyday bills that don’t pause while waiting for disability benefits

Nae is currently applying for SSDI, but that process can take many months before benefits begin. Until then, there’s no steady monthly income - as Nae primary way of generating income not only requires the use of his voice but also of his hands to type, write and use the phone. Which is making an already difficult situation that much more, as the bills and costs of care are already piling up.

We’re asking for your help to carry Nae and his family through this transition. Every dollar raised will go toward keeping them afloat. Covering essential expenses, easing the financial strain, and making sure Nae has what he needs to live with dignity, comfort, and love. I have watched Nae stress while in the MICU over bills and working and money. He dreamt he was “breaking free” from the hospital, ripping off all of his cords, wires and IVs. It wasn’t a dream haha.. luckily he didn’t get that IV out! When the nurse asked what he was dreaming of breaking free from, (or running towards), as she reattached what he had pulled off, he responded with a weak voice - “chasing money”. We as a family are doing all we can to help, and are not the type to reach out and ask for help from others. Approval for SSDI benefits typically take far longer than what we, as a family unit can sustain with such a quick and heavy diagnosis along with how quickly symptoms have progressed in such a short time span.

If you cannot give financially, please know that your prayers, kind words, and sharing of this fundraiser mean just as much.

Nae has always been a fighter, and with his community behind him, he will not face this road alone. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Nae Nae.

With love and gratitude, always, from Nae and our family, to yours <3