(This picture is from my annual Thanksgiving Eve Costume Party 11/2017)

Where to start?… I had a really funny blog I was going to write tonight and maybe I will tomorrow, but it doesn’t feel important now – but maybe it’s more important. 

Last night we lost another amazing person. Last night ALS took another young husband, dad, friend and bright light from us. Last night ALS broke so many hearts. Last night ALS once again made life unfair and dark. Last night ALS won again. 

I met Alison, about two years ago, in an online support group while Duane was alive and we were living in San Diego. I met her husband Cory when I moved to be close to family in Wake Forest, NC where they lived. It was an instant friendship. We met at the most crucial time in all of our lives. A time where we all needed a new level of support and a deeper level of friendship. This last year and half has been filled with heartache, tears, understanding, support and so much love. 

I am so lucky that I am able to call Cory a friend. When I met him he reminded me so much of Duane, even my family noticed the similarities. His sense of humor, sarcasm, love of adventure and heart all reminded me of him daily. I am so fortunate that I was able to spend time with someone that could make fun of me in one moment and in the next one be supporting one of my crazy ideas. He was always there to answer a boat question, a lawn question, offer advice or make fun of me for something dumb I did. He was always supportive and there to listen. 

Last night I laid in bed and talked to Duane. I told him it was his turn. Cory (and Alison) had welcomed me with open arms and hearts, it was his turn to welcome Cory.

My heart is broken for Alison, their boys, their families and friends. ALS is a brutal disease. It sucks the life out of the patient and those around them. It makes everyone a shell of what they used to be. There is no cure and that has to change. Families cannot continue to be devastated by this horrible disease. 

If you have any questions or would like more information about ALS or research please ask me. 

– xoxo Victoria