To all my fellow PALS and CALS.
Here's wishing you all a very happy new year.
Hope this year brings with itself great discoveries that eliminate
ALS and similar diseases from this world.

Below is the email from ALS Association, US.


Dear Gaurav,

When the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people throughout
the world will cheer and wish each other a very Happy New Year. This
event is more than a change of a calendar. For most, the start of
the New Year symbolizes the beginning of a better tomorrow. Who
doesn't long for a second chance, a fresh start, the chance to repair
an injustice, or for another embrace from a loved one?

With the radical shift in our economy, 2008 was a year that many
people of our nation experienced an abrupt change in their life's
plan. Those of us affected by ALS can empathize. We can understand
being blown off-course, and suddenly cast into uncharted waters with
little guidance or hope. At times like this, we all must take a deep
breath and focus on what is truly important. We are all so fortunate
to have found one another under such challenging circumstances.

Looking ahead to 2009, let's renew our commitment to our mission
statement and refocus on our vision. The ALS Association is the only
non-profit organization fighting Lou Gehrig's Disease on every
front. By leading the way in global research, providing assistance
for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters,
coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care
centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association
builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching
for new treatments and a cure.

Never forget that The Greater Bay Area Chapter is here to support and
to advocate for your needs now, while leading the fight for the cure.
We are here to help you care for and honor your loved ones. By
subscribing to and forwarding our monthly eNewsletter, we can keep
you informed of breaking news, support groups, our Walks and Rides,
and important events in the fight to defeat ALS.

We will never, ever give up You, Gaurav, are a part of that effort.
And together, united, we will triumph.

From all of us at The ALS Association Greater Bay Area Chapter, thank
you for all of your support and dedication in 2008.

We wish to you a very Happy New Year.


Linda M. de Mello
President and CEO
The ALS Association
Greater Bay Area Chapter