I lost my father, Rich Conaway, to ALS on February 19, 2024. After experiencing the effects of this disease firsthand, I made it my goal to do anything I could to help in the ALS community. Before his diagnosis, ALS was nothing more than a challenge I saw on social media. I had no idea what it was or what to expect. Watching my father, Rich, wither away was the most helpless feeling I have ever experienced. There were so many times were the only thing I could do was hold his hand as he let reality overcome his emotions. For some ALS can be a drawn-out process, for others like my father, it takes over so fast that you cannot keep up. He lived less than a year from the time of his diagnosis. Purpose is found through the things that have impacted you the greatest, for me, my purpose is giving back to this community.

Thank you for helping me reach my Ski ALS fundraising goal! Ski ALS raises funds to support those affected by ALS and to spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure.

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 a person with ALS averages 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis. ALS can strike anyone, and presently there is no known cause or cure.

That’s why I’m skiing. To change the statistics. To bring help and hope to those living with the disease. To ensure that no one ever hears the words: “You Have ALS” again.

The past three years have brought incredible advancements in ALS research, expanded access to care for people living with ALS, and enabled legislation that impacts the quality of life of people with ALS and their families.

But, we can’t stop now. The key to a cure begins with you.

Please consider skiing with me or sponsoring me. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease.