Pathfinders

My name is Willard Blackwell. I was diagnosed with ALS in May of 2022. I had fallen while playing pickleball, which prompted the doctors to investigate my symptoms. As a professional singer and musician leading the Gator Nation Band, I have encountered daily challenges due to the loss of full use of my hands or legs. I no longer perform with my band but recently sang with friends. I still try to do the things I love as long as they don't worsen my symptoms. I have learned about conserving energy, and I try not to overexert myself so I can keep moving forward. I find joy in music and comedies – anything that brings a smile to my face. This experience with ALS has taught me a lot about maintaining a positive attitude while battling this terrible disease. Initially, I was reluctant to ask for help. My friend, Kathleen, noticed my hesitation and called in my soul tribe because she knew I needed more assistance. I understand that seeking help can be difficult, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. We don't have to go through this alone. It's much better to have support to help you navigate your way.
If you feel that I can support you on your journey, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me at willard@everythingals.org

My name is John Hudacek. The day I received my diagnosis, I knew this could be the end or a new beginning. After spending the first three months being scared, I realized that the difference was in my mind and my attitude. So, I decided to look at this chapter of my life differently. Early on I saw that many of us pALS are looking for that ray of light breaking through the drizzling overcast. If you look hard enough, you will find it. I hope to share my life experience to help others find courage and resilience and develop the skills to help us cope while others find that cure. As a veteran, I can assist other vets find the resources that make a difference in this journey. I was diagnosed in November 2021 with a limb-onset, non-dominant arm. Slow progressing, just now starting to weaken my other arm. Now is the time to discover the hidden strength in each of us. I am honored to hold your hand on this journey. You can contact me at ​​johnhudacek@everythingals.org

My name is Kathleen McCallum, and for the past two years, I have been helping my friend Willard, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2022. I asked him if he wanted to do a documentary to help him navigate his ALS in a creative way and bring hope. Our Journey of Hope documented the positive steps we took to help Willard’s symptoms, extend his time, and detox his body in hopes of reversing his ALS symptoms.

Prior to helping Willard, I fought for my mother when she had breast cancer and, later, level 4 stomach cancer. At the end of her life, she also had Lewy Body Dementia. My dad had Alzheimer’s disease, and we participated in many Alzheimer’s fundraisers as well. I have studied alternative healing since the 1980s, and I am a certified microbiome nutritional coach.

My goal is to bring more hope to those suffering from this horrendous ALS disease and to bring more awareness about ALS to the world. There is hope, and if I can help provide it for you, please contact me at kathleen@everythingals.org

I’m Michael Montemayor, and I have a wife and three kids. We live in Washington State. I graduated from Washington State University in 2003 with a business degree. I was diagnosed with ALS in July 2023.  

A lot has changed for me and my family since my diagnosis. I struggle to do some of the everyday simple tasks, but there are still a lot of things I can still do. What keeps me going is my trust in God, knowing He has a plan for me and that He is in control, which gives me peace.

I also have lots of help and support from family and friends. My plan is to keep fighting against ALS and not let it control my life. I have met lots of other ALS patients who have been a blessing to me, and I hope to be able to help others with ALS as well. God Bless!!   

michael@everythingals.org

My name is Shawn Penno. I think my years of work in the field and advocating for workers will translate nicely into helping pALS with their journey. Please reach out if you need someone to 'vent' to, help with problems, or just someone to talk to alleviate the isolation.

I live in BC, Canada, and have been a care aide for 25 years, 2 in long-term care and the rest in the Community. I was diagnosed in September '23 with limb onset ALS after 16 months of 'investigating,' with a diagnosis of carpal tunnel, thoracic outlet syndrome, and such.

The devastation of hearing THAT Dx—we were hoping for anything but that—really made me soul-search. Do I want to Drop everything and make a bucket list, or…I decided that my work is what really fulfills me; the gratitude I get from my clients is priceless. Work gives me the focus to stay positive and live in the moment.

Something I teach in my class is we want to "enable our clients, not disable them.” This has taken on a whole new meaning now that I'm the one becoming disabled! I WANT to do what I can while I still can! I even built my own wheelchair ramp right after my Dx while still having the arm strength to do it!

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I can be reached at shawn@everythingals.org

Siddu (Sridhar) Tummala is the CEO of Cresido Analytics. 

Siddu can be reached at siddu@everythingals.org

My name is Monica Martinez, and I live in Texas. At 48, I was diagnosed with Bulbar Onset ALS. In late 2019, I noticed trouble enunciating words, which soon turned into
slurred speech.

As a police officer, my voice was crucial. One day, after speaking on the radio, a fellow officer texted me, asking if I had been drinking because I sounded drunk. This prompted me to seek medical advice.
 

After years of seeing various doctors and undergoing speech therapy, in March 2023, my neurologist gave me devastating news: "Monica, you will never be able to carry your firearm again." I was bewildered. "Monica, you have Bulbar Onset ALS. I'm so sorry. You should get your affairs in order."

The diagnosis of ALS was heartbreaking, but giving up my career was even harder. At 49, I was forced into early retirement after 24 years of service.
 

Since my diagnosis, I found solace in the ALS community, realizing I was not alone. This new family provided support, and I reciprocated. Together, we are stronger.
 

Welcome to Pathfinders! We are here to support, guide, and walk with you on this journey. You are not alone! WE GOT THIS! TOGETHER WE ARE BETTER THAN ALS!

I can be reached at  monica@everythingals.org

My name is Janie Gobeli. When I received my diagnosis in 2021, the first thing I said to my loved ones was that I was going to fight! My husband calls me his fierce warrior. I knew I had a choice to remain positive or let ALS take everything from me, including my attitude. So, I decided to be positive, to have faith, hope, love, and Gratitude. It is my hope to inspire others to remain hopeful in our journeys. I live each day to its fullest. I enjoy travel, concerts, and having fun. I’m not going to let the ALS stop me because I have a lot to live for, including my grandson, who was just born on June 1st. It hasn’t been an easy road by far, but I’m here if you need the encouragement, hope, and support to keep fighting! You can contact me at janie@everythingals.org

My name is McFinn Lovere. My experience of reversing my ALS put me on the
path to being of service to others with this devastating disease. At my weakest point I was only able to move two fingers and my head. I know what 24-hour daycare means. I have experienced the feelings you take on from isolation. I had one caregiver who was excellent. I had another caretaker who looked at it as a job, not compassionate service. It is so important for your mental stability to have someone caring for you who understands the stress ALS creates for pALS and their families. I hope my and my family's experiences will help relieve some of the Stress ALS brings into your life.

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Your Everything ALS Pathfinder, McFinn, is reaching out; reach back. mcfinn@everythingals.org

I’m David McLauglin,  I am a 57-year-old male residing in Chichester, NH. I was diagnosed with ALS in October 2024. Despite the challenges that come with this diagnosis, I strongly believe in the power of nutrition, spirituality, and limiting stress to help navigate this journey. I am married to a wonderful woman and we have two amazing kids, aged 22 and 18, who provide me with unwavering support and love. As a member of EverythingALS Pathfinders, I have found a community of individuals who understand the struggles and triumphs of living with ALS. Together, we share knowledge, experiences, and hope, reminding each other that we are not alone in this journey. Let's walk this path together and support each other every step of the way. 

david@everythingals.org

My Name is Faith Oremland. My son was diagnosed with ALS in January 2022.

If you are dealing with the challenges of being a parent to a child with ALS, issues with family communications, and learning how to live positively in the face of ALS. Being an Everything ALS Pathfinder gives me the opportunity to help others on our ALS journey. You are not alone!

It's about sharing our stories, listening to each other, providing helpful information, and being there with compassion and love. "I am committed to doing whatever possible to help my son and other people with ALS and their families live their best lives. We can do this working together with hope and positivity!"

My career was in health data information systems. I am an amateur storyteller of tales that teach life lessons. I love working with the people at Everything ALS and also volunteer with Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS) Mothers of ALS and the I Am ALS Legislative Affairs Team. Please get in touch with me at faith@everythingals.org

These days, I live a purpose-driven life! I do what I can…WHILE I CAN!

If I can make your journey any easier, or if you have any questions, let me help you find answers. My hope is to be the resource you need.

Feel free to contact me at joe@everythingals.org

I spent 15 years in radio and 25 years in the Music Industry (in Nashville). Through the years, I’ve worked in Finance and Real Estate and owned a bakery! Currently, I live in Baton Rouge, LA.

That was what I DID…it wasn’t WHO I AM! I was diagnosed with ALS in 2012…thankfully, it’s a very slow-progressing form. When ALS took my speaking (I slur!), my whole world changed, and I lost my career. For a guy who’s always made his living talking…this is a difficult pill to swallow. But I am more than just my diagnosis! My skill set can STILL be put to good use! Even though MY speech is failing, I try to give ALS Patients a voice!

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Contact me at joe@everythingals.org

My name is Kim Halastra. I'm in my sixties. At fifty-five, I faced some health challenges due to a condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which led to weak legs and bladder issues. In 2010, I was diagnosed with HSP, but in 2015, that diagnosis changed to ALS at Emory Neurology.

I used to work as a pediatric nurse, but as the disease
progressed, I began working from home. I navigate my journey in a wheelchair now.
 

Although my voice is shaky, my furry friends Petey and Snowy always bring me comfort and joy. I'd describe myself as a night owl and value kindness and empathy. My faith in Jesus guides me, and when people ask if I
live alone, I love to say, "No, I have my Lord and Savior!"

Being a Pathfinder has given me an excellent opportunity to share the victories, challenges, and peace I've discovered along the way. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you seek understanding and support. I would be grateful to assist you on your journey.
 

Sending Blessings to all those facing similar challenges!
 

I can be reached at kimmy@everythingals.org