Help Tom Butler and Family Through ALS

Dear family, friends, members of the New City community, as well as compassionate neighbors from near and far,

Our brother-in-law Thomas (aka Tom, Tommy) Butler was recently diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) also known to many as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This is a rare, terminal, neurological disorder that results in the progressive loss of motor neurons. This causes the brain to lose the ability to initiate and control voluntary movements such as walking, talking, chewing and other functions as well as breathing.

Family and friends are absolutely devastated by this diagnosis. Tom is a friend to all, he always lights up a room with his humor and legendary “dad” jokes. He is a devoted father of two girls, Emma and Amelia and husband to our sister, Elise. He is a true family man who would do anything for those around him. He is an avid outdoorsman who loves the beach at Kismet, Fire Island (where he began his career in 1989 at the Kismet Inn), biking with his two daughters, planting in the garden and proudly cutting his own grass. Sadly, due to the progression of his illness, these activities that have once brought him joy are becoming increasingly difficult and overtime will not be possible.

Tom has also recently had to stop working at a job that he has loved for over 20 years. During this time, patrons of J.G. Melon on the upper east side of NYC, have had the honor of seeing Tom behind the bar, serving and delighting many. (Although he would say the honor was all his.) He has been there for people who were celebrating, people who were going through tough times and people who were just stopping by for a drink. He has been there for people from all walks of life and always knew how to put a smile on their faces.

Going forward, Tom, Elise and the girls will need our support in many different ways. Since Tom is no longer able to work, this has put a financial strain on the family. One way we, as a community, can come together for the Butler family is to help aid in financial support. Any money raised will help with upcoming medical expenses, the purchasing of medical devices as the illness progresses, accessibility around the home and the ability to stay in the home they love.

Thank you for taking the time to read our message and know that we appreciate any and all acts of support, no matter how big or small.