Fellow Rotarians and Friends,
Albuquerque Del Norte Rotary Club has had three of its members diagnosed and lose their battle with ALS. Long-time member Bill Johnson was the latest Club member to receive this diagnosis and then pass away. The other two past Club members with ALS were Gene Gaik, who served as our Club president in 2013-14 and Jim Mehlberg, charter member. Bill, Gene and Jim lost their fight with ALS and have passed away.
Our Club comes together for this event not only to honor these three men, but to honor all who are suffering from this incurable disease.
Together we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Our team is committed to raising money to support people in our community with ALS and spread awareness of the urgency to find treatment and a cure. Please consider joining our team in the Walk to Defeat ALS®.
Why We Need Your Help
Often referred to as Lou Gehrig's 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 an ALS patient averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis.
Every 90 minutes a person in this country is diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes another person will lose their battle against this disease. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries.
This crippling disease can strike anyone. Presently there is no known cause of ALS. It costs loved ones an average of $200,000 a year to provide the much needed care for ALS patients. Thank you for helping making a difference in the lives of those who suffer.