Road Tripping With ALS

ALS Caregivers… love is enduring the loss of your loved one while they are living.
JR

Today I had the privilege of enjoying lunch in the company of five courageous souls. Three surviving spouses of ALS, one daughter and of course my caregiver, Meg. Each having their own story of courageously caring for their spouse with ALS. Allow me to introduce you…

Joe Moonie, Mary Jo Ament Lorenz and Mendy Gomez, who was accompanied by her daughter Talia. Joe lost his wife, Mary Jo and Mendy lost their husband a few days apart in July. As they shared their lives with Meg and I, I could feel the love and also the very present pain of their losses; regardless of how long or recent. The vulnerability shared was both cathartic and healing. I was humbled and grateful to be in their presence.

They each honor their loved ones memories individually and in their own way. Yet they continue to be active in the fight to end ALS, you see it’s very personal to them. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they endure the devastation left by ALS.

Lastly I will share that Mendy decided to join us on the first leg of our trip. She states that “this is a healing trip for her”. She will plan on staying with good friends near Boston when we arrive there. So with this in mind I have one more request of you. Say a prayer for me; on the road with two very strong willed and extremely talkative women…☺️😉.

J Reyes