"If I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened

               pathway of another,?..

 If  I can wipe from any human cheek a tear,

              I shall not have lived my life in vain while here." -anon

Marty Allen was my best friend - he was like a brother to me.  Diagnosed with ALS, he chose to live his days with great courage, gratitude for every day, and a wonderful sense of humor.  Marty passed away on July 29, 2003 and not a moment goes by that I don't miss him like crazy. Marty started me on the battle against ALS and I promised him I would not stop until a cure was found.  I feel that he, in turn, watches out for me from up above - forever my friend.

23 years ago, Marty captained a team for the Walk ALS.  He named it the Wizards of ALS, knowing of my love for the Wizard of Oz and the fact that our friendship was so like that of Dorothy and the Scarecrow - short, intense, and filled with joy.  Marty's team, that year, raised over $3,500.  23 years ago, Marty was out there with the walkers, cutting the ribbon to start the walk, enjoying the surroundings, and reveling in the love and support of his friends. 

It was Marty's wish that his team be a continued success in the fight against the disease which robbed him of a long life. In the last years, starting in 2020, adaptations were made due to the pandemic and virtual walking was initiated. Nala and I have created a new tradition so we can walk together.   We do our usual 4 walks, we do a bit more than the required 3 miles, we will walk in our own way, but still with the same thoughts of Marty and all the other friends we have known who have lived or are living with ALS.  I have my original green Wizards of ALS tee shirt (and now having made a matching sweatshirt in case its chilly) and Nala has had made a matching hoodie - we will both dress in our green, Marty's favorite color, we will decorate my car and the trail head and walk to support ALS United Connecticut.   Although Marty will not be physically at our side while we walk, I know his spirit will be there, walking with us, cheering us on and beaming hope and inspiration for all who walk that day.  The fight against ALS continues.  There are others who need help - I need your help. I would love to have you join the team and do a virtual walk - walk where you can and think of our dear friend Marty who wanted to keep his fight going.  If you cannot walk, please consider making a donation.    

Together we can make a difference and bring hope and support to others like Marty.

"The soul would have no rainbow, had the eyes no tears" 

Marty will always be my rainbow.

Thank you for your support!

Love always, Lynn