Hi everyone, 

Thank you for donating and helping me reach my ALS Walk fundraising goal. I am walking to support Ann Toca, the CEO of the organization I work for, the ASU Outreach Hub, and in memory of my mom, Pat Smyth, who died from ALS.

I remember my father, Guy, and my family lovingly caring for my mom at their home in Fountain Hills. It truly takes a village to support caregivers like my father. ALS Arizona helped us prepare, as a family, to give my mom the best care possible. I will always be grateful for that.

That's a big reason why I'm walking. To pay it forward and support the caregivers who help their loved ones fight this disease. 

I also look forward to a day when we make real progress in treating and ending this disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that slowly robs the body of its ability to walk, speak, swallow and breathe. The life expectancy of a person with ALS averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis. ALS can strike anyone, and presently there is no known cause or cure. 

I would love to change those statistics. 

The past few years have brought incredible advancements in ALS research, expanded access to care for people living with ALS, and enabled legislation that impacts the quality of life of people with ALS and their families. 

But there is so much more to accomplish. Please consider walking with me or making a donation to my team. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.