My name is Maureen Colazio, reaching out to ask for your support in Tony Ultimo's fight against ALS.

ALS, a fatal motor neuron disease, involves the gradual breakdown of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. Often referred to as "Lou Gehrig Disease," it's a rare condition causing profound challenges for those affected.

In the face of such devastating news, words often fall short in providing comfort to afflicted families. Thus, I've initiated this 'GO FUND ME' campaign to aid the Ultimo family in alleviating the financial burdens accompanying ongoing treatments and medications. Your contributions, no matter the size, will be immensely valued during this trying period.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

TONY’S STORY

On September 9, 2022, I attended a specialist appointment to address concerning physical changes I had been experiencing. Initially, I attributed them to a sports-related injury, but the examination yielded a life-altering diagnosis.

I received the news that I have ALS, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Shocked and speechless, I had to confirm with the doctor twice in disbelief. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor deemed it necessary to conduct another specific test for ALS. Though I hoped for a negative result, the test confirmed my worst fears—I indeed had ALS.

From the very beginning, I have been under the care of an exceptional team at Sunnybrook Hospital, where relentless efforts are made in ongoing clinical trials to seek the next breakthrough. Their steadfast dedication to research and trials aims at discovering new treatments. Unfortunately, presently, there is no known drug capable of halting or reversing ALS progression. This is the harsh reality I face as I navigate forward with only the available medications.

While I hold hope for the emergence of a promising new drug, I've had to adapt my daily life due to ongoing physical changes. Despite my limitations, I remain optimistic about pursuing continued treatments locally or even outside of Canada.

Throughout this challenging journey, I am immensely grateful for the overwhelming support I've received from my family and friends. Their unwavering encouragement sustains me through the toughest of times.