Hello, my name is Lura Sawyer, and I am the president of Let Hope Grow Inc. It is a non-profit organization that provides assistance to ALS patients and their families. Currently, we have a family that needs help after the passing of their husband, Mark, due to ALS. Following is a brief story of the family.

It's heart-wrenching to know that some families struggle to make ends meet. I want to share the story of Mark and Stephanie Bennyhoff, who have been through many challenges in their lives. Stephanie was a devoted caregiver to her husband, Mark, who fought bravely against ALS for over six years. During this time, Mark spent more time in the hospital than at home, going through 16 hospitalizations from September 2022 through December 2023. In 2023, when his youngest daughter was to graduate from high school, they didn't think he would be alive for that event, so the school district, some of the daughter's classmates, and the hospital put on a graduation for her at the hospital. Unfortunately, Mark passed away on February 7, 2024.

It must have been such a difficult time for Stephanie and her family; my thoughts are with them during these trying times. It's heartbreaking to hear that, after her husband's passing, Stephanie has been left to manage everything alone. They have three children, including the youngest one, who is pursuing a career in nursing, and it must be an overwhelming and challenging time for her. With ALS draining all their savings and insurance, it's hard to imagine how she must be feeling right now.

If there's any way we can come together and help Stephanie get back on her feet, it would be a great act of kindness. Thank you for considering this request and your compassion toward her and her family.