Cheryl S., 62 years old of Duluth, Minnesota, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2011 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a type of motor neuron disease in which the body attacks motor neurons, or the nerve cells found in the brain, brain stem and spinal cord resulting in the loss of control of muscle movement. Patients progressively worsen losing the ability to walk, move their arms, eat food or swallow, speak or breathe on their own, eventually resulting in death.
Cheryl is a devoted mother and wife, a first-rate paralegal and compassionate leader in her church and community. She serves as a second mother to many of the neighborhood children. Prior to her first symptoms, Cheryl was an active outdoors enthusiast and loved camping, hiking, kayaking, and climbing. Recently, Cheryl has been placed on a ventilator. She is otherwise healthy and is in full possession of her mental faculties. Cheryl has educated others about ALS in her church and community. Her tenacity for life and her love for her family have garnered support that stretches beyond her small neighborhood to reach the halls of the United States Congress, Minnesota State Senate and House of Representatives. Her wit, compassion and vivacious spirit bring a smile to everyone who is fortunate enough to meet her.
Become a health advocate for people with ALS like Cheryl, please sign and share the petition to support Group Expanded Access Programs today.
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