EVERYTHINGALS
Pathfinders
My life changed completely when my son was diagnosed with ALS in January 2022.
Prior to that, I spent 20+ years in health data information systems. After retirement, I became an amateur storyteller of folktales, myths, and legends that teach life lessons. I volunteer with several ALS organizations, and I especially love working with the people at Everything ALS and the Mothers of ALS, sponsored by Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS).
Being an Everything ALS Pathfinder gives me the opportunity to help others on their ALS journey. It's about sharing our stories, listening to each other, providing helpful information, and being there with compassion and love.
My email is faith@everythingals.org.
If you would like to contact me, I would gladly offer my support in any way I can. If you have issues with family communications, the challenges of being a parent to a child with ALS, and learning how to live positively in the face of ALS, please get in touch with me. I want to help!
That's what Everything ALS Pathfinders do.
20 years in the Army as an Infantryman, aerial photographer and field medic. 12 years in a private international boarding middle/high school coordinating
flight, SCUBA, martial arts, rock climbing, equestrian, and driver's education programs.
10 years as an education advisor and recruiter with the Department of the Army as a civilian. Retired from work 3 years ago and counting, travelling the world now.
Symptom onset left hand/arm summer 2019, diagnosed November 2021, living life to the fullest. Married with three adult children. I want to be an Everything ALS Pathfinder to give comfort, hope, and help to those affected by ALS, especially in the fields of resilience skills, programs for veterans, and sharing positive thoughts that have helped me on my journey.
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!
I was diagnosed with ALS in 2012…thankfully, it’s a very slow-progressing form.
MY WHY:
That was what I DID…it wasn’t WHO I AM! 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! 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.
Contact me at joe@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!!
Now an Everything ALS Pathfinder, Janie had been an elementary school teacher for 35 years, primarily teaching Kindergarten and 3rd grade. She was diagnosed with ALS in December 2021.
Janie currently serves as an ALS Research Ambassador, where she brings her experience of participating in a clinical trial by serving on various clinical trial advisory committees, participating in discussion panels, and Les Turner’s Symposium on Clinical Conversations.
My purpose and desire are to bring hope to my fellow pALS. As a former educator, I want to educate, advocate, and be the voice for all ALS Warriors in ending ALS.
Three years in a Christian Order serving in a homeless shelter.
One year as a nurse orderly at the Missouri State Mental Institution.
Owner of property management company for 24 years.
My hobby was the creation of wooden toys for 21 years.
Executive Director of Valley Hospice. Eighteen years in the hospice program. 1984 to 2002.
ALS symptoms 2005 ALS diagnosis Jan.2006.
I could only move two fingers and my head; I needed 24-hour care.
Dr. Bedlacks 42 ALS reversal.
The Spiritual Guide of Everything ALS 2020 and Onward.
Author of the book and audio of The Tale of an ALS Reversal. A Terrifying and Insightful Journey. On Amazon.
Your Everything ALS Pathfinder, McFinn, is reaching out; reach back. mcfinn@everythingals.org
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!
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 can be reached at shawn@everythingals.org
Everything ALS Pathfinders
Everything ALS Pathfinders' vision is to empower individuals affected by ALS and their families. Our threefold mission focuses on:
1. Physical Empowerment: We are dedicated to finding practical solutions and resources to alleviate the physical challenges associated with ALS, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients as their conditions evolve.
2. Mental Resilience: We're here to support you at all times. Our goal is to improve the mental well-being of people with ALS, caregivers, and their families by providing ongoing support and fostering a sense of community. You are not alone in this journey.
3. Spiritual Support: By addressing spiritual concerns, we aim to provide a comprehensive approach to healing, ensuring individuals find solace and meaning amid the challenges they face.
Our main priority is to provide support for individuals with ALS, from offering care to seeking a cure. As an Everything ALS Pathfinder, we wholeheartedly welcome you into our community, a place where you will never have to feel isolated. This is a community where you belong, where your voice is heard, and your experiences are valued. Let's come together and provide unwavering support to help each other Live a fulfilling life despite the difficulties we may face with ALS.
