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A little history...It started with anger that turned into violence. Soon the physical symptoms began. Problems with balance led to use of a walker. Swallowing became difficult resulting in frequent choking. Even the ability to speak was impaired. First, he would spit when he talked. Then his voice became just a whisper. Towards the end, when he opened his mouth and spoke, no sound was heard. One day a neighbor found him next to the lake lying on the ground with his walker on top of him. Barely audible, he admitted that he wanted to die. He was passed around from hospital to mental hospital before he finally was released from his own personal hell when he died April 23, 2004.

This is the story of the last 15 years of my grandfather’s life. But the story did not end with a death. Less than a year later, we would discover that at least two of his three sons had inherited the same disease, Huntington’s Disease. Both were showing symptoms and soon both were sick enough to qualify for disability. The oldest son, my father, now spends his days in bed. He is confused, depressed and has to be reminded to eat.  The worst part is that my brother and my cousins have a 50 percent chance of developing this disease also.  But there doesn’t have to be a sad ending to this sad story. Because scientists know the exact location where the gene mutates, causing Huntington ’s, there is real hope for a cure in my lifetime. That is why I created this page; to tell you my story and ask for your help. Every dollar donated will go towards the cutting edge research that means so much for each family dealing with this devastating disease. Give a dollar, give a thousand. Every penny helps. Thank you for your generosity.

For more information about Huntington’s Disease visit hdsa.org.