ALS KISS MY DASH Support Angie's fight

I received the most devastating news in April 2021. I was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). That diagnosis didn't just affect me; it has an enormous emotional, physical, and financial impact on my husband John and the rest of my family.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with ALS, it is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the loss of muscle control. Sometimes there is a genetic cause, but most of the time the cause is random and unknown. Patients are told there is no cure and are given an average life expectancy of 2-5 years. While you may hear it is very rare, it's actually not. About 15 Americans are diagnosed with ALS every day. It's a particularly cruel disease because, piece by piece, it takes away a person's life and independence while keeping their mind intact.

This disease has stolen most of my movement, my ability to swallow, and is trying to test our faith. I'm choosing to fight for my life. Along with the support of my devoted husband, we are trying to keep me from a long-term facility. I now need 24-hour care.

Your financial assistance will aid in medical care and treatment for me. It will also go towards a bathroom shower that will fit my shower chair. It is important to the family for each of you to know that any funds generated here will be to pay for specific care and shower, which is incredibly costly.

I want more time if it's God's will. More time to make memories and to advocate for others with ALS. All life is worth fighting for. We hope we can count on all of you to join us in this fight.