It’s with heavy hearts that we share some difficult news. My beloved Dad, James (Jim, Jimmy, Jimbo) Bento, was recently diagnosed with Bulbar-Onset ALS, a rare and aggressive form of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. As our family begins to navigate this heartbreaking and uncertain journey, we’re reaching out to our community to ask for support—whether it’s through a donation, a share, or simply keeping Jim in your thoughts.

Now, as he faces the immense challenges of ALS, Jim needs our help.

ALS is a progressive and terminal disease that currently has no cure. Bulbar-onset ALS affects the muscles needed for speech and swallowing first and can progress rapidly. With the advancements of new research and technology, we are doing everything we can to remain hopeful for him. However, the cost of care is overwhelming—between medical equipment, therapies, traveling to different clinics, and multiple medications, the financial burden is immense. Our goal is to keep Jim comfortable, supported, and surrounded by love throughout this process.

If you know my Dad Jim, you know he has helped out many people with anything needed without expecting anything in return and has supported others in a time of need simply by a phone call, visit or lighting prayer candles for friends dear to him. This is our chance to show up for him in return. Every contribution, no matter the amount, makes a real difference in helping my parents manage the road ahead.

We are incredibly grateful for your love, prayers, and generosity. Thank you for rallying with us. Let’s show Jim that he is not alone in this fight.

He just recently came home from a 7 day stay in the hospital with aspiration pneumonia and a UTI . He recently underwent getting a feeding tube to help maintain his nutrition and help him gain weight. He was also diagnosed with a small lung mass that will require short term radiation treatments.

With love,

Erica De Jesus and Family