This past Saturday was our local Walk to Defeat ALS in San Antonio, Texas. It was the second event that I have attended. It was a really nice day for the event. That is saying a lot because if any of y’all know , south Texas can be pretty warm still this time of year!
Overall, it seemed to be a really successful event. We had a good turnout as a whole and as a team. My team was able to surpass my goal and raise nearly $3000 for the local ALS Association chapter. It’s always a good feeling to know that you did at least a little bit to help out your community.
I typically donate to research oriented organizations since I believe that we have to support groups that will be providing therapies and eventually a cure. But I feel very moved to give back to the organization that helps our local community. I know the people who are working in the local office, personally , and I see the hard work and dedication they put in. So , it is the least I can do.
I have had the honor of being asked by our local chapter to represent the ALS community on several occasions. I participated in a news story a couple of years ago , did a phone interview for an email campaign and most recently a television interview to help promote the walk this past weekend. I hope to continue to be able to be of any assistance in the future any time they ask.
There is a reason that I feel so strongly about being an advocate. I have attended quite a few ALS clinics and I am pretty active on social media /internet forums . The stories you read and hear about. The struggles you see. They are my motivation. It is a sad shame that people have to take blow after blow from this disease. So, if there is anything I can do to help , then that is what I will do.
I am fortunate to be a veteran with ALS. No one is ever fortunate to have ALS, dammit! But truth be told , the VA does an excellent job of caring for vALS. So, I do not take that luxury for granted. I know full well that the majority of pALS have a much more difficult fight on their hands. And I will continue to give back all that I can ! For them.