Stand with Our Family in Dad's ALS Fight
Donation protected
Our beloved dad has been diagnosed with ALS. It's devastating news that's rocked all of us to our core, and honestly, it's brought up more questions than answers. However, here's what we DO know:
- Every journey with ALS is unique. Average life expectancy is 2-5 years, but some people decline more rapidly, others more slowly. The disease attacks motor neuron function, which either rapidly (in stages) or gradually decreases his ability to walk, talk, eat, etc.
- There are a LOT of costs that go into supporting my dad over the (hopefully) years to come in improving his quality of life and having him with us as long as possible. Some of them include, but are not limited to: medical equipment, medical support staff, surgeries, lifestyle changes such as expensive medicines, vitamins, home renovations for easier access to basic necessities, etc.
- Community is critical during these times, and we've already been surrounded by a lot of love and support in the days after this diagnosis. My parents are natural givers, but they're graciously understanding the need to accept help from those who want to and are willing to offer it.
- With the right care and accommodations, we CAN fight this and delay the inevitable, giving my dad a higher quality of life in the coming months and years, and creating opportunities for my parents to enjoy their family and the time they have together more fully.
- The costs already quoted to us, OUTSIDE of insurance, are astronomical (Ex: $40k per year AFTER insurance for his medicine, anywhere from $25-$75+k in home renovations, $40-50k for a motorized wheelchair & specialized bed that can help him sleep more comfortably and accommodate him as his mobility decreases).
My parents were not equipped to absorb the cost of such a life-altering diagnosis. We are humbly turning to you: our community of friends, family, and their networks to help us raise money toward these costs. We need YOUR help supporting my dad in fighting ALS and in the care and accommodations required to live as fully as he can during these times ahead. Every dollar raised will go to one of the above-listed costs, and anything remaining that we don't need will be donated to other families suffering with ALS to support them as well!
We will keep you updated on his journey and ask for prayers and help sharing the cause as we tackle this diagnosis as a family, and support my dad in the fight of his life.
Organizer and beneficiary
Alex Bowden
Organizer
Mays Chapel, MD
Deb Bowden
Beneficiary