Patrick Miller's Fight Against ALS: Devoted Father and Nurse

Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Strangers,

My father, Patrick Lawrence Miller (50), has recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It is a cruel and relentless disease, which will completely rob him of his speech, strength, mobility, and ultimately, his life. I am writing this plea for help with a heavy heart.

Patrick is not just a statistic; he is a loving father, a dedicated nurse, and a pillar of strength and resilience in our family. For 12 years, he served tirelessly as a nurse. Working night shifts in intermediate and critical care units, saving lives and providing comfort to thousands in their most critical moments. His commitment to his patients was unwavering, and his compassion knew no bounds.

My dad's journey is one of resilience and determination. Born in 1973 in Holland, Michigan, and raised in Chicago, his loyalty to his hometown is unrivaled. Making yearly visits to spend time with lifelong friends, catch Cubs games, and enjoy the atmosphere of the city he loves has provided him with great joy.

In 2008, when my father lost his job, he didn't falter. Instead, he rose to the challenge, putting himself through nursing school to support his three children – myself, Aidan, and Ruby. During this time he started out as EMS on an ambulance and later worked as a clinical care technician to provide for us. His dedication knew no bounds, and his sacrifices were immeasurable.

Furthermore, my dad was one of the brave individuals who worked on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. He faced the challenges of overcrowded hospitals, PPE shortages, and extremely dangerous working conditions in the name of caring for his community and providing for his children. Do you remember the first months of the pandemic? He was one of the compassionate nurses rushing towards the danger risking his health for the benefit of others. Some of his colleagues were exposed to Covid and are no longer with us, it was like a war zone and nurses didn’t know if they were going to be the next casualty.

As unfair as it feels, this disease has taken its toll on my father, rendering it difficult for him to perform the most basic tasks we often take for granted. Speaking and simple movements become challenges, and each day brings new obstacles, as the disease progresses. As his eldest son, it pains me beyond words to witness his decline, knowing that there is no cure, and no reprieve from the inevitable outcome.

ALS has stolen his ability to work, to provide, and to live the life he fought so hard to build. Working is no longer possible as speaking and movements are becoming more difficult and energy draining. He now faces the greatest battle of his life, fighting against a disease that knows no mercy.

For these reasons, I am reaching out to you, and asking for your support. The financial burden of zero income and limited savings combined with medical expenses, an apartment relocation closer to family for support, and round-the-clock care is quickly becoming unmanageable with his current resources. His doctors have prescribed a high fat, high protein diet, a more expensive life extending measure. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in my father's life. Your donation will give him the comfort and security he deserves in his final days, allowing him to focus on what truly matters – spending invaluable time with his loved ones.

Together, we can make a difference. We can give my dad the peace and comfort he deserves. Please consider donating to Patrick Miller's ALS fund and sharing his story with your friends, family, and networks. Every share helps us get a step closer to meeting our goal. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.

Thank you for your compassion and support during this difficult time.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Leif Lyon-Miller and the Miller Family

This is a difficult time for us. Although we love and welcome all of your support, we ask that you please understand that you may not receive a response from Patrick at this time, as he is very emotionally overwhelmed by this news.