May is usually a very busy month for me.
According to Wikipedia, there are 16 month-long observances in May, “used by various governments, groups and organizations to raise awareness of an issue, commemorate a group or event, or celebrate something.” (There’s actually over 40 May observances listed at NationalDayCalendar.com, but that’s just too ridiculous to use as a reference. I said, I’m busy!)
So, prior to my ALS diagnosis in July 2018, I already had my hands full in the month of May. I mean, International Masturbation Month, alone, will do that, if you know what I’m sayin’.
But, then there’s:
- Celiac Disease Awareness Month: I admit I do not have Celiac Disease, but I know people who do and it sucks bigtime. Gotta be there for your friends, right?!
- Jewish American Heritage Month: I train all year for my annual attempt to break my bagel-eating record, and with all the people I know observing Celiac Disease Awareness Month, I usually have a lot of explaining to do.
- Mental Health Awareness Month is always a worthwhile cause, there’s still too much stigma out there, and with climate change, an organized crime mob having taken over our government, and COVID-19, more people than ever before are in need of help with their despair and rage.
- National Bike Month: Sadly, due to ALS, I’m no longer able to participate in this annual effort to promote cycling as an ecological form of alternative transportation. But, I was a bicycle commuter for many years, and I can’t go through May without thinking about all those Bike-To-Work days, pedaling with an extra boost of purpose, and stopping at the Celebration Stations for stickers and granola bars.
- National Pet Month: We’ve got two cats and a dog. ‘Nuff said.
- National Smile Month: Yeah, I know this is British and has to do with dental health awareness, but I’ve been contemplating the possibilities of merging Mental Health Awareness Month with National Smile Month.
See what I mean?!
My dance card is full!
I’m busy!
The last thing I need is ALS Awareness Month on my calendar, as if “living” with ALS isn’t rough enough already!
P.S.
All that said, if you are interested in learning more about ALS, aka Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease, aka MND, aka Motor Neuron Disease, aka Charcot’s Disease (I know, more aliases than a mafia boss!), or if you are ready to do something about this devastating illness that takes a life every 90 minutes, here’s my shortlist of resources:
- IamALS.org: Advocacy group founded and led by pALS (People with ALS).
- ALS Therapy Development Institute: Non-profit research org, SO important considering for-profit concerns are always looking to make money off of the sick and dying.
Thanks!
I, Too, Heard The Owl 