“I can’t take ALS off the table.”
I cannot forget those words. Sitting on a cold table at the University of Washington, I wondered how that could even be a possibility. I didn’t know what the ramifications were, but I knew it was bad. I was a healthy, 37-year-old with some minor muscle cramps and twitches. At that moment I thought about my wife, in shock next to me, and my children, at home blissfully unaware. What followed was a difficult process whereby alternative diagnoses were picked-off as candidates (not unlike how the disease slowly reduces mobility) until all that was left was ALS. It can be maddening and demoralizing as you pin your hopes to one possibility and then another, until none remain viable. I suppose that process of elimination could have shaped my perspective — all that’s left is ALS.
But that’s not right. There’s family and friends; there’s hope.
May is ALS Awareness Month. It’s a chance to bring awareness to this terrible disease and the families it has touched. It’s an opportunity to drum up support and steel our resolve. Now, in my first May since being diagnosed, it’s my turn to carry the torch. Last May, I was a TCPS associate, veteran, father, husband, son and brother. Now, I’m still all those things but also a patient with ALS (pALS). Last May I knew very little of the disease (besides what I gleaned from the Ice Bucket Challenge or Lou Gehrig’s speech). Now, I know that it is a rapidly progressing, terminal neurological disease with no cure or meaningful treatment that strikes without discrimination (though it’s twice as common in veterans).
But it doesn’t have to be.
Last May there was no COVID-19 vaccine, but today multiple vaccines are widespread because of the combined efforts, determination and urgent pace of passionate individuals. And because of hope.
I came to DWT because of the people and the culture. This firm was built by tireless professionals who are as compassionate as they are dedicated. Community and pro bono service are a cornerstone at DWT. Everyday I’m reminded that I made the right choice in calling this firm home. Now, I’m hopeful that the people in our firm can make an impact in the ALS community. It doesn’t take much. Too often, ALS is forgotten because it’s rare, or too fast for the type of support necessary for meaningful change. But as the Ice Bucket Challenge demonstrated, it’s possible.
The Pro Bono & Social Impact Team is now rolling out an ALS initiative with opportunities for volunteering, awareness walks, and infusing organizations like I Am ALS with DWT spirit.
If we dig in together, real change is possible.
This year, please consider helping to keep hope alive for me, my family, and countless others who are battling ALS.
Nicholas J. Warack
