Here's a picture of Anna in good times (this was one of her senior photos).

She had a fierce spirit- you wouldn't want to mess with her on the soccer field! Living undiagnosed for probably close to two years, Anna fought the good fight for another 9 months after her official diagnosis. I'm extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to reconnect and spend those months with Anna. She was living in North Carolina near her Dad, and her brother David and I "tag teamed" staying with her.

And a shout out to the Jim "Catfish" Hunter chapter in Raleigh, NC now known as the ALS Association North Carolina Chapter. A few times I happened to be in town when they were meeting and found support, sharing, and helpful information from the group. Support groups work! Every group and each meeting has its own "chemistry" or dynamics, so you're bound to have your concerns addressed and emotional needs met one way or another.

Please consider joining the Finnegan's Friends team in our Mini-Walk to Defeat ALS® or choose a team member from the list and make a donation so that we can carry on in Anna's memory and make a difference with ALS patient support and research. 

Peace,

Paula Chernyshev Finnegan