By Stephen Winthrop

If you ever run into me, you’ll notice that I am wearing a button that says, “I have ALS. Ask me about it.” I love this button because of the conversations it creates with people who want to learn more about ALS and my own journey. Now, I’d like to have an important conversation with you.

I was diagnosed in 2013 and progressed relatively slowly for the first couple years. My earliest symptoms were in my hands, arms, and shoulders. Now, I’m losing my ability to walk and to speak. As my disease progresses, it is having an even greater impact on my family. I am so grateful to my wife and children for helping take care of me, but no family should ever have to face this struggle.

I’m honored to serve as the Chair of the Board of Trustees for The ALS Association. This has given me a new perspective on the fight against ALS. I can say that, without a doubt, we have never been closer to finding a life-extending new treatment or a cure. But we need your help – now.

Because of you, our global research program is currently funding 126 projects in 8 countries, people with ALS have access to clinical care and programs that help improve quality of life, and advocacy efforts are in place to help secure millions more in research funding and better public policies for people with ALS.

I’m grateful for people like you who are willing to fight with me and the thousands of Americans who are currently fighting this terrible disease. With your continued help, those of us with ALS may soon be able to live much longer lives.

There is much to be grateful for, but our work is not done. We have never been closer to finding a life-extending treatment or cure. But we need your help – now. Please donate today, and give help and hope to thousands of families facing this devastating disease.

I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving.