Over three years ago, my wife Bonnie was diagnosed with ALS. At the beginning, our life really did not change very much. Bonnie’s voice was slightly raspy but overall, no real problems other than knowing she had this terrible disease. But the fight began. ALS Awareness became very important to us early on and will continue to be critical for years to come. We hope you will join us in this fight and raise awareness to help Bonnie and all other patients affected by ALS.

The following year, Bonnie continued to be relatively stable with minor setbacks along the way but not enough to slow this wonderful lady down very much. We were traveling and set out with our entire family to explore many of America’s National Parks, of which Yellowstone was our family’s favorite. As the months passed, we enjoyed a fantastic European River Cruise. Then a trip to our country’s great Northeast with wonderful long-time friends. A 3-week road trip in 2019 was another highlight as we struck out to go visit many friends and family throughout 8 states before returning to our home in Thomasville, GA. As you can see, Bonnie is living life to the fullest and not wasting a moment!

2020 has brought about much change. Bonnie’s body lost much strength and she can no longer eat or swallow on her own. All medicine and feeding is 100% through a feeding tube. As for communicating, her voice device and cell phone app actually speak for her as she types the words. She texts, Facebooks, and emails. Her mind is clear and she is totally AMAZING and encouraging to all of us. Bonnie is a Warrior. Her will to live is fueled by the love of her beautiful daughters, Amy, Keri, and Christy, her happy and loving grandchildren, Abby, Taylor, Cate, and Carroll, and all the wonderful close friends, family, and many others that just know and love Mrs. Bonnie. This beautiful lady is a true warrior; she will fight this disease and encourage anyone else with ALS or other sickness to fight also and to NEVER GIVE UP.

Just recently Bonnie was approved for a power chair. These chairs are amazing and will make her very, very happy knowing she will be able to get out and go do things she loves to do. This power chair will have a very positive impact on her daily life. She will even have her own personal chauffeur… ME!!

As I close, Bonnie told me many years ago to “Always Remember to Kiss Me Goodnight”. I believe I have followed through with that kiss most of our married life and then as the morning comes, the “morning hug” is waiting as we start the new day. Thank you Honey, you are my Rock and the Love of My Life. Continue to fight and we will all walk the path together that God has laid out ahead of us.

The past two years have brought incredible advancements in ALS research and have expanded care for ALS patients and their families and with your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of everyone affected by this disease in Georgia. Our goal for this year is $750,000 and every dollar gets us that much closer to this goal.