My mom Sharon, a lifelong Sox fan, "hostess with the mostest", and Aerosmith fanatic, was diagnosed with ALS in 2009. Over the next three years, despite the cruel disease progression, she charged forward with tenacity. We visited friends and family, celebrated birthdays, explored new cities, and most important to my mom, we celebrated Christmases with plenty of champagne. In March of 2012, surrounded by family, my mom passed away at the age of 50. We miss her every day. 

The Greater Boston ALS community, including families who share their stories, has been a cornerstone in gaining worldwide exposure for ALS. My hope is that the name Team Sharon contributes in the same magnitude, not only for ALS awareness, but for my mom, who's legacy our family has vowed to forever honor and never forget. 

On Sunday, November 3rd, I'm proud to be running the TCS New York City Marathon as part of Team ALS Therapy Development Institute. Your donations support the continuous efforts to advance promising drugs to eventually end ALS. 

I appreciate you reading, and thank you so much for your generosity. 

- Brian Appelman