Four years ago when my uncle, Kevin Heller, was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gherig’s Disease), I had no idea what that really meant. I remembered the ice bucket challenge that circulated on social media when I was younger, but I never imagined the reason people were pouring ice over themselves would be something that would affect my life so personally. My uncle battled ALS for a grueling 18 months that started with losing his ability to speak, then his ability to eat, and eventually ALS took away his ability to move at all. This greatly impacted how I view life and my abilities.

My friend Rachel and I are currently juniors in high school and we hear people constantly say, “It’s the hardest year of high school.” While we can't attest to whether that is true or not yet, we've certainly felt the strain with increased workload and sports commitments. When I am feeling discouraged, I wish I had Kevin by my side, or just one phone call for his advice and support.

With the beginning of a new year, Rachel and I decided to channel our energies towards honoring my uncle by raising money to support people living with ALS. Training for a half marathon allowed us to feel connected to Kevin. We can go the extra mile and push ourselves to run distances longer than we ever have.

ALS is a disease without a cure and CCALS helps all of those living with ALS on their way. ALS has been shown to disproportionately affect Veterans (like my uncle) and it took Kevin from us before he turned 60 years old. ALS, puts people in a "glass coffin" as their bodies stop working. Kevin's mind never stopped, and he was driven to find a cure for ALS until the day he died.

Don't worry Uncle Kevin—we are going to continue your fight and we know you will be with us every step of the way.

Help us care for those living with ALS by donating at the link listed below. #GiveEmHeller and Beat Navy!!!

Love, Megan and Rachel