When my precious friend Laurie was diagnosed with ALS in May 2025, my heart broke. Since then, I’ve experienced so many emotions that it’s hard to put them into words. Watching someone you care about face such a devastating disease leaves you feeling helpless at times. I often wonder if I’m doing enough, because no matter how much I want to help, it never feels like enough.

What I have learned is that sometimes the most meaningful thing we can do is show up, stand beside the people we love, and help make a difference for everyone facing this disease. That’s why I’m participating in Walk ALS Georgia.

When someone you love is diagnosed with ALS, the first question you ask is, “What can I do to help?” For me, one answer is to participate in Walk ALS Georgia, which raises awareness and funds to support Georgians living with ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neuromuscular disease that slowly robs a person of the ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe. It can strike anyone, and although there have been many advancements in ALS research, we still don’t know what causes it. An ALS diagnosis is still fatal because there is no cure.

I am walking for Laurie. I am walking in honor of her strength, courage, and determination in the face of this unimaginable journey. I am also walking so that one day, when someone hears the words, “You have ALS,” it will no longer mean they are facing a terminal diagnosis with only two to five years to live.

I am walking so that Georgians living with ALS today know they are not alone. I am walking to help ensure that when they need support, they can receive it from ALS United of Georgia. Most of all, I am walking to give them hope.

You may not know someone living with ALS personally, but you know me, and I’m asking for your support. Please consider joining our team or making a donation to support our Walk ALS Georgia fundraiser. Every contribution—large or small—helps provide critical services, advances research, and brings us one step closer to a cure.

Thank you for supporting this cause that has become so deeply personal to me. Together, we can enhance the lives of people living with ALS every day until we find a cure.