We come from all over. Different backgrounds. Different life experiences. Different ALS experiences. All of our stories are endearing.
I would like to take a few moments to just share a few blogs of fellow ALS warriors that inspire me. There are countless stories out there , and you should take some time to look into them. They exemplify the strength and the struggles of us all. They are beacons of positivity.
Sunny Erasmus . https://sunnystrong.com/ You would be hard pressed to find a more energetic and passionate advocate! Sunny is a staple of the ALS Association. If there is an opportunity for patient representation, there is a good chance you will find her there. From DC to Ireland and most recently Australia. She is very active within our home state of Texas , as well. She is adept at brightening the day. I mean, she has the word “sun” right in her name! Oh… and if you need hair products , she does that , too.
Matt Bellina. https://tweedthoughts.com/ Matt is a new newcomer to the blogging world, but a juggernaut in the ALS community. His blog also allows us the perspective of his wife. If you don’t know who Matt is , a quick Google search will give you mounds of information. He was integral in the passage of the Right to Try Act along with others. He was also instrumental in getting the US FDA to finally publish the very long awaited ALS clinical trial guidance document. I also consider him a shipmate, though he would have been my superior. We are both Navy veterans. His mother is quite the ALS force to reckon with, too.
Lara Garey. https://tomstroops.com/ Talk about a force! She is on top of her game. I have the privilege of working with her on a veteran issues committee and I am honored to share this fight with her and her husband. “Can’t” is not in her vocabulary. She is a straight shooter and knows how to get things done.
They are just a few of the many stories in this ALS journey. Though they may not know it, I, for one, find inspiration and motivation in their words and actions. I hope that you will, too. I am honored to be in such good company.