In August 2011, at age 28, Steve Dezember was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. A year later, Steve is no longer able to walk without assistance, his breathing has decreased and speaking is difficult. Because Steve can no longer work, he has lost his insurance and is waiting on long-term disability to kick in. His newlywed wife Hope was working full time to support the couple but she recently quit to care for Steve who requires 24-hour care. She also started Hope for Steve to raise awareness about his disease and share their love story.

Hope and Steve’s attitudes are amazing. As Hope says, “Life is a gift, and every single day needs to be special. I know there will be ups and downs, but for every day I get with my love, I am grateful.”

This Saturday, three different events will be held around the Atlanta area to help raise funds for Steve Dezember and others with ALS. I hope you will consider the honors fraternity Sigma Sigma Phi of GA-PCOM’s golf tournament at Bear's Best in Suwanee, a UGA-affiliated golf tournament at The Georgia Club in Statham or the Walk to Defeat ALS® in downtown Atlanta.