09/02/2024
PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING NO MATTER THE AMOUNT:
https://secure.alsgeorgia.org/.../General/758507368...
http://secure.alsgeorgia.org/goto/DanaOppenheim2024
A Love Letter to My Sister who was diagnosed with ALS
Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, and this year, my family has been faced with one of the toughest challenges to date. My sister, Elise—whom we affectionately call Lissy—has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a disease that has turned our lives upside down. In sharing this, I hope to illuminate the profound impact you can have on a loved one's journey, even when hope feels fleeting.
Lissy is not just my sister; she is my person, my best friend, and the glue that holds our family together. From childhood magic to adult conversations filled with laughter and love, our bond is indescribable. She has always been my confidante, the one I could rely on through life’s ups and downs. The special relationship she shares with my son is something truly remarkable. Their bond is filled with joy and warmth, and it breaks my heart to think of the potential challenges ahead.
When we first noticed the symptoms, we desperately prayed for an alternative diagnosis, anything but this insidious disease that I had scarcely understood until it touched my life so intimately. ALS is unforgiving. It erodes not just the body but also the very essence of who a person is, and the realization of this truth weighs heavily on my heart.
Growing up with Lissy was like living in a world of wonders. She was the quintessential big sister—the type to forge unforgettable memories with whimsical tales and imaginative adventures. Whether it was taking me to see "Jaws" when I was too young and it scared the crap out of me or telling stories that Milky Way bars fell from the cosmos above, she has always infused magic into our lives. I can still see her, dressed as a wizard, orchestrating a forest adventure in her darkened room, spinning stories that would delight and sometimes frighten me. Those childhood days were filled with laughter, creativity, and love.
Now, as I navigate this painful pathway with her, I see the resilience and bravery that define her spirit. She has taught me so much—about love, joy, and courage—and it is my turn to honor her by advocating for ALS research. That’s why I have decided to raise money in her name. Every dollar counts, and there isn’t a minimum or maximum donation set; what matters is your willingness to support us. A contribution of any size—be it $1 or $1000—will help shine a light on this disease and remind Lissy that she is loved more than words can express.
We've shed enough tears to fill an ocean.
This is not just about funding research; it’s about community, support, and the unwavering bond of family. It’s about ensuring that Lissy knows she is surrounded by love and appreciation as she faces these challenges head-on. I urge you, if you can, to donate and share this message. Let’s create a ripple effect of kindness and support for those fighting against ALS, and for Lissy, the brave soul who continues to inspire all of us.
As we walk this difficult path, I remain grateful for every moment we’ve shared and every memory we continue to make. Lissy has instilled in me the importance of resilience, and together, we will fight against this disease. Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, and for being a part of this journey.
