“Walk to Defeat ALS” Chapter 153

It was a sunny 66 degrees as hundreds of friends, family members, and caregivers gathered by the outdoor stage at the National Harbor. We all listened and cheered when our emcee, Paul Jeter, announced that we collectively raised over $400,000 for the 2025 Walk to Defeat ALS.

The walk was originally scheduled for October 4 at the National Monument, as it had been every year before. However, the government shutdown closed the national parks as well. The ALS Association quickly pivoted and, within two weeks, secured a new date at the Harbor and it was on again! Can I get a 👏 in the comments to show our ❤️? Christine and the D.C. team hosted a wonderful event.

This year was extra special for me because Laura and I were invited on stage to represent ALS families an honor I will always gladly accept. The event was also supported by The Mission Continues (TMC), a group I had the privilege of leading for over two years while organizing various events throughout D.C. and Northern Virginia. I knew the walk was in good hands.

The weather on October 4 would have been beautiful, but with the walk being moved to November, I’ll admit I was a little nervous that I might have to stay home. I prayed and God is good.

I had two goals this year: to raise $5,000 and to recruit 200 walkers globally. We hit the first goal but fell a bit short on the second and that’s okay. Our team stretched from Hawaii to Germany, with participants in Colorado, California, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York in between. It was made up of family, friends, and caregivers. We even had friends from the Italian Embassy join us, so I’m adding Italy to the list as well!

The National Harbor is truly a can’t-miss destination if you’re visiting the area. After the event, we even had the chance to meet Santa, so I’m adding the North Pole to our list too. Unlike the Monument location, the Harbor’s turnaround route was great you could see and high-five the other walkers along the way.

Special shout outs to my top fundraisers and away teammates. Cindy B $1,100+ and my local top fundraiser Renee L $650+

I hope you have the opportunity to join a walk and meet wonderful friends like we did.

Love and blessings,

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