CRYSTAL'S FIGHT!

I am the daughter of Crystal Monroe, who had shoulder surgery in September 2011 to fix her rotator cuff. After her surgery, she was never able to regain her strength in her right arm. Shortly after her left arm was losing strength, and her breathing was compromised. By the time her lung function was checked, she only had 24% lung capacity between both lungs. A little over a year later in November 2012, she was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 49. In April 2013, we went  to Vanderbilt University in Nashville, where the diagnose of ALS was confirmed, and was in the last stages with six months to live and to remain on the bi-pap machine 24/7 to help her breath. While at Vanderbilt we were given information on The ALS Association. Since signing up we have received overwhelming support with things such as home visits, support groups, monthly newsletters, equipment programs, communication programs, respite care, research and advocacy. My mom lived on a bi-pap for almost 2yrs until this past November 2014, when she suffered from a stroke and was put in the hospital. While there she quit breathing and was placed on a permanent ventilator. Today my mother is strong and courageous, she has more fight and will power than anyone I've ever known. She goes out to events, concerts, and even shopping! Despite being given only six months to live, there is no doubt in my mind that if it wasn't for her GOD given strength and the support we've received from The ALS Association, our story maybe different. They've helped us find transportation through their newsletter, mom has gotten an eye gazer for communication, equipment loaned to us at no cost, and respite care for our family. So we know first hand the benefits of this awesome Association. On October 17, 2015 at Jewelry TV, in Knoxville, The ALS Association TN. Chapter is having a walk to help raise money to find a cure for ALS. So we are asking all of our friends and family not only to buy a shirt and help raise money for this chapter, but also to come out and join our team on the walk to fight ALS. We will be wearing these shirts on that day of the walk in support of my amazing mother, and to continue to bring help and hope to all affected by this terrible disease. So please come out and join us!!!!