I joined the Air Force in 1954 and spent three years serving at bases in Germany. I had gotten out of high school and it was the only job I could get, but it was worth it to have a chance to see the world and serve my country. When I returned, I worked for 30 years at a factory in New Jersey. I have a son in Florida and a daughter nearby in Pennsylvania, as well as two grandchildren who are currently in college. In 2010, I was diagnosed with ALS and have used the clinics ever since. I've lived a long life and worked hard, and I hope we can see a cure and do something to help these veterans.