Sheila Runs the Javelina Jundred
100 Miles
October 26-27, 2024
Dear Friends,
As many of you know, last September our sister, Eileen Hamilton, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the cruelest of diseases. ALS, heartbreakingly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a relentless thief. It steals not just the physical strength of those it afflicts but impacts entire families and communities.
Unbelievably, earlier this summer, my nephew Daniel and his wife Maud received the devastating news that Maud's mother, Jean Zimmerman, was also diagnosed with ALS. Both Eileen and Jean are in their mid-60s and looking forward to retirement and spending more time with their children and grandchildren. In honor of Eileen and Jean, on October 26, I am embarking on a challenging 100-mile run at the Javelina Jundred in Arizona to raise funds and awareness for Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS).
Eileen is the heart of our family. She gives of herself generously, and is a constant source of love and support to others, always ready to listen and offer her thoughtful perspective. Her optimism and quick wit are the glue that holds us together. She has been an active runner and cyclist for years, and was seemingly in perfect health. She and her husband Joe introduced me to long-distance running and encouraged me to run my first half marathon with them. They have both completed multiple marathons (Joe and I ran Marine Corps together), enjoyed many cycling trips with their children, and we often ran races together as a family. As an avid Peloton member, ‘CmonILean’ is still finding a way to get it done.
Joe and Eileen Hamilton
Maud D’Arcy and Jean Zimmerman
Jean, like Eileen, embraced an active lifestyle before her diagnosis. She had taken up strength training, going to the gym daily. A spectacular author, she wrote about the importance of supporting girls in sports. In her late fifties, Jean decided to become a licensed arborist, loving the active nature of the work, and even participating in a tree climbing workshop with her daughter Maud. She has always embraced new and challenging experiences, inspiring her family to do the same.
This run is our family’s way of standing tall beside Eileen, Jean and everyone facing the ALS battle. I will be running 100 miles and my nephew Daniel will be pacing me in the second half. Like many things we do, this is a family affair. By supporting this run, you're extending a hand of hope to Eileen, Jean, and countless others who rely on CCALS's vital services.
The Hamilton gang
Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS.org) stands as a lifeline, providing critical equipment, transportation, and caregiver and patient support groups, while serving as a second family to those affected by ALS. Raising funds has become increasingly difficult, but CCALS's mission remains as important as ever. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of people with ALS. Every contribution, regardless of size, provides hope, dignity and crucial assistance to those facing this disease.
We sincerely appreciate your help.
Total:
$104,512.23