I have been in the Army for 9 years and was deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While in the service, I was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. I no longer can walk or stand. I can’t move my arms very well and can’t speak very well either. I can’t even hug my three sons, Tyler (age 6), Chase (5) and Drew (3). I am very proud of my service and would do it again if it were not for this disease. I have been to DC to advocate for funding for the ALS Research Program at the DOD because I want a treatment to help all of us who have served, are serving and will serve in the military.