As you may have heard, my sister’s son in law, Brian Tootle, was recently diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Brian is 52 years old and lives in Lewes, Delaware with his wife and daughter.  

ALS is a cruel, relentless disease that slowly takes away the things we often take for granted: the ability to walk, to speak, to swallow, to breathe. Most people diagnosed live for just 2 to 5 years. ALS doesn’t discriminate, it can touch anyone, at any time. And right now, there is no known cause and no cure.

The Delaware ALS United 5K Walk will take place at the Wilmington waterfront on September 12. I am part of a team called Toot-Toot-Tootles.

If you are able, please consider walking with us, making a donation in Brian’s honor, or sharing this post to help raise awareness and support for ALS. I’m participating because I refuse to accept this reality. I’m walking for the families who watch their loved ones fade too soon. I’m walking for the moments stolen by this disease and for the hope that we can one day give them back. I’m walking so that no one ever has to hear the words, “You have ALS,” without knowing that the world is fighting with them.

To credit your donation to me, click my personal link below and donate. The link is