One day ALS is a terrible life changing diagnosis that affects people around the world.  The next day it is personal.  A friend of mine has been diagnosed with ALS.  I support research towards prevention and a cure, but today I donate and will walk to support the ALS United Rocky Mountain organization for the invaluable help they provide individuals who need a place to turn.   

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), aka Lou Gehrig, or Stephen Hawking's disease, 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.