From : AliChar@aol.com

Date : Mon, 14 Sep 1998 12:36:37 EDT

Subject: My Father

Dear Friends:

My Father passed away on July 16, 1998 after a two and a half year couragous battle with ALS. As long as I shall live, I don't believe I will ever encounter an individual as brave. My mother, sister and I were there from beginning to end. From the day of his diagnosis, until the day he joined the Heavens in our home, by his bedside.

To say the least, the past few years have been a unique experience, unlike any other. At times terrifying, and at other times rewarding. I wouldn't trade any of it for the world. I never thought I would be involved in such a life altering experience at twenty-five years old. I feel as though I have truly experienced unconditional LOVE.

Unconditional: without conditions or reservations; absolute.

Love: a deep and tender feeling of affection for or attachment or devotion to a person or persons.

Some people spend a loveless life, feeling no love, receiving no love. In my family this word is foreign.

ALS is such a life-altering, challenging disease. At the fork in the road we must choose a path, as patients, and caregivers. One path is negative, doom and gloom. The other path is a positive carpe diem approach. My father lived a long plentiful life, but some of his greatest joy was experienced in his last two and a half years of his life. The four of us formed a bond of love, support and determination that all families should be so fortunate to experience.

I could go on for four pages about my ALS experience. I guess what I really want to say is its all what you make it. We made it the best we could for my Dad, and I can live the rest of my years knowing that we pulled out all of the stops. I have no regrets. Everything was said and done, and we showered him with love and positive vibes until his last breath. I wish I didn't have to wait until I get to Heaven to actually see my Dad again (in person), but in the meantime I have some peace because he is still right here with me. I feel him in my heart, I feel his presence. It is hard to explain, but you understand once you are in my position.

My mother, sister and I continue to support the cause (ALS) . We are active with the Kessenich Family ALS Center here at the University of Miami (Florida), headed by the world renowned neurologist (ALS specialist) Dr. Walter Bradley. He saw us through the best and the worst. I will be forever indebted to this kind humanitarian. Mere words don't seem to be enough to express my admiration and gratitude.

Most importantly to my Father, Jim, I miss you so much already. Thank you forgiving me the experience of a lifetime. I will take all of the lessons I1ve learned with me throughout my life. I am lucky to have experienced them so early in life. Thank you for everything you have given me. We will all continue to search for a treatment and a cure.

Wishing everyone touched by ALS much love and support Never feel alone, there are so many of out here that are experiencing or have experienced the same thing. Together we can make a difference, with our loved-ones and with ALS as a whole. It's up to us.

Regards, Alison A. Charlton Miami, Florida