Walk to d’Feet ALS, one step at a time.
By Mel Fabrikant Tuesday, May 29 2007, 06:19 AM EDT Views: 11
Rotary is the universal connector. I continue to be amazed!
I am a Rotarian. Professionally I am a respiratory therapist. Specifically, I assist folks who have extraordinary breathing problems. I train them and their caregivers in the use of mechanical ventilation and breathing techniques for relaxation and energy. Most of my patients have a neuromuscular problem that affects the diaphragm and chest wall muscles. I visit them in their homes to assure proper, effective use of the equipment/techniques.
Simply doing my work -this is how I met Jack Koch, member of Fort Lee Rotary Club. Jack and his wife Lucy have hosted Gift of Life children for years. Rotary is a huge part of their lives. Now Lucy has ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s Disease), a progressive neuromuscular disease. I set her up with a cough machine that helps to keep her lungs healthy and prevent pneumonia and hospitalization. I keep in touch with her to monitor her respiratory status and general well being.
Lucy is courageous in her will to live even though she cannot speak or use her hands effectively.
I want to let you know of a way you can honor Lucy and Jack. Support the ALS Association Greater New York Chapter by contributing in Lucy’s name to the Walk to d’Feet ALS, one step at a time. Sunday June 3, 2007 at 10 AM at Saddle River Park in Saddle Brook , NJ there will be a 3-mile walk/ride. Friends, families, and folks with ALS will be gathering to create awareness and funding for the ALS Associations patient-care clinics and research. On Mondays, I am the respiratory therapist on staff at the ALS Clinic at Beth Israel in NYC. Our clinic offers patient assessment, education and counseling, access to assistive technology, and equipment loans.
Make your check payable to ALS Association. On the memo line, write For Lucy Koch. Send it to Betsy Thomason, 36 Mountain Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Thanks very much.
Please help to circulate this widely among all your friends
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