Under brilliant blue skies, Gail Wurtzel marched with her team, Memories of Miriam, to celebrate her mother Miriam Hanania’s memory and honor her life on Sept. 19. She lead her team in the Walk to Defeat ALS at Eisenhower Park. Miriam Hanania, mother of long time Plainview resident Gail Wurtzel, suffered from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease). During her struggle with the disease, Miriam lost her ability to speak, swallow, walk and breathe, ultimately passing away three years ago.
The Walk to Defeat ALS was filled with marchers and ALS sufferers. The mood during the day wasn’t somber. It was joyful, hopeful and optimistic.
“I formed my team to honor my mother’s memory,” said Wurtzel. “She was a beautiful woman and despite how ALS weakened her, her spirit and will to live remained strong to the end. Everywhere you turned during the Walk, you saw, heard and felt that same spirit–in family members, supporters and sufferers of ALS. It was a very uplifting day.”
Last year’s Ice Bucket Challenge brought much needed attention to ALS, raising more money that ever before. This year’s Walk to Defeat ALS brought out new and old supporters, continuing the work to raise awareness and raise money to defeat this dreaded disease. Recent reports indicate that the funds raised through the Ice Bucket Challenge accelerated research that could lead to new discoveries in ALS treatment and research. The challenge also created widespread awareness of ALS and found new and recurring donors to the cause.
“ALS is a horrible disease. Seeing people who have the will to live, fight and thrive is inspirational,” said Wurtzel. “My mother was like that. When you have a team with that fighting spirit, anything is possible, including finding the cure for ALS.”
To make a donation to find the cure or get more information, visit www.ALSA.org.
