Bill Richardson Writes:

Dear Friends,

As many of you are aware, my wife, Vania, was diagnosed with ALS in February, 2008. While we were aware something was wrong, the news, after extensive testing, was devastating and we have been on an emotional roller coaster ever since.

I will be joining our daughter Danielle who walked last year, and her team for the The ALS Association, Rhode Island Chapter's Walk to Defeat ALS to be held on September 20. Our group will be larger this year as more will join us to help support the effort.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), better known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a fatal neuromuscular disease that can strike anyone without warning. Every 90 minutes someone in this country will be diagnosed with ALS and every 90 minutes someone will lose their battle. These past 18 months have been months of great change, as well as a challenge, for us----and we are trying hard not to let ALS rule, but it is harder than one can imagine.

The Walk to Defeat ALS is The ALS Association's national signature event. Each year over 120,000 patients, men, women, children and corporations join together to raise funds in support of internationally driven cutting-edge ALS research and community-based patient services programs. Now in its ninth year, approximately 150 Walks will be held around the country.

As a participant of the Warwick, RI Walk, I am asking for your support by making a gift to The ALS Association or by joinng me as a participant on Walk Day.

I will be walking in support and honor of Vania, who will also be joining us, who amazes me every day with her courage and fortitude in her battle with ALS. During her daily struggle with the debilitating effects of ALS, she inspires all with her determination and bravery.

Supporting and joining the Walk to Defeat ALS is easy. Simply visit one of the links below to donate directly online. You may also choose to send your contribution in the form of a check. Please make checks payable to The ALS Association and mail to me at the following address:

WF Richardson

4 Seawinds Terrace

Westerly, RI 02891

401-596-8919

Thank you for supporting me in the fight against ALS. I know money is tight for everyone these days, but any amount will help. Vania and I appreciate your thoughts, prayers and generosity.

Gratefully yours,

Bill Richardson

wfr3@verizon.net

Here's the URL for my personal page.
http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/RhodeIslandWalk?px=2351326&pg=personal&fr_id=5832&et=pNGYT38oRoTuGNFKHsEeHQ..&s_tafId=90952

Here's the URL for the team page for Vava's Voyage
http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/RhodeIslandWalk?team_id=127160&pg=team&fr_id=5832&et=alwDpobQ1kybG4o1MNhQrA..&s_tafId=90952