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Looking back, however, the symptoms of ALS were showing as well. I noticed that my golf swing was not as strong as the previous Fall. I even kidded with my golf partners by yelling "Fore" when stepping into the tee box because it felt like the club might slip out of my hands. By remaining dedicated to the fitness program, I lost the weight, reduced my blood pressure, discontinued the medication and generally felt better. Everything was looking up except for the continued weakness in my arms. In fact, by now there was a visible loss of muscle mass in one hand. Most of you are familiar with what comes next. One doctor visit became many. Then there were the blood tests, MRI's, EMG's, and spinal taps. I felt like a pin cushion and the outcome was a diagnosis of ALS. That was December 2000 and my world was upside down. I went through the gamut of emotions: Fear, anger, pity, denial….It's amazing the impact that three letters can have! But thanks to the loving support of family and friends I've come through the other side alloyed with HOPE! This hope has also provided the foundation for my extended family to fight back. We have created a support network know as "Just Cure It" and our rallying cry is "Make a Difference Every Day". We use this network for communication, emotional support, idea sharing, fund raising and to encourage friendly family competition in running events.
Mike Dawley, right, runs the 2003 Indianapolis Mini
Marathon It is uplifting to be part of the family spirit that is generated from running races together. They always provide the basis for humorous stories afterwards and act as a catalyst for a great party as well. This year we have participated in one 10k, several 5k's, and two half marathons. Our next challenge is taking on the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon this Oct 12th [2003]. Myself, two brothers and two sisters-in-law will be running with 40,000 other participants and one million spectators in America's largest marathon. We are filled with the excitement of anticipation and achievement. ALS forces tough choices upon you and I made two early on. First, I realized that Attitude is a choice, and I'm choosing a positive one everyday. Secondly, I'm choosing to LIVE with ALS, not die from it. Now I'm asking you to make a choice. Join my team in spirit and share in the sense joy, fellowship and accomplishment. Take my advice and realize you can choose your attitude every day. Finally, please make a contribution to the Robert Packard Center for ALS Research at Johns Hopkins. See You At the Finish Line!
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