Greetings .. My name is April Gomez-Orozco , this is my 3rd year in raising money and participating in the Walk for ALS . This year is especially meaningful to my family and I. My father Ruben Gomez was diagnosed with this rare and devastating disease in 2017 and lost his battle with ALS February 25, 2019. My family and I walk in honor of his legacy and to countinue to spread awareness in his name.

Thank you for helping me reach my Walk to Defeat ALS(R) fundraising goal! The Walk to Defeat 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 walking. 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 two 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.

Due to the rarity of this disease , support and resources are beyond limited. The ALS Association has provided my father and my family useful information, clinical trails and guidance/counseling during a time when we were lost and had no direction.

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

Please consider walking 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.