Please Support Todd's ALS Fight

As many of you know, the Pallifrone family has been handed more tribulations in the past year than any family should ever have to endure. In October of 2018, at age 48, my uncle, Todd Pallifrone was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Soon after, my Aunt Lori received the news that she would begin her battle with Breast Cancer. In the following months, the Pallifrones have faced countless hospital visits and doctor appointments, and the physical and emotional toll has been significant. After months of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, we find solace knowing that my aunt is cancer-free. Her fight will continue within my uncle’s as his primary caregiver, wife, and confidant.


My uncle is an incredible husband to my Aunt Lori, father to my cousins Natalie (9) and Zachary (7), brother, uncle, son, and friend to everyone he encounters. Upon his diagnosis and to this day, my uncle has radiated positivity and strength and is fighting ALS with more resilience and fortitude than I can ever imagine.


ALS, also referred to as Lou Gherig's, is a terminal motor-neuron disease that causes the affected individual to slowly lose the functionality of their muscles. One of the defining characteristics of ALS is it's merciless and quick progression. Each day, it becomes more difficult for my uncle to complete tasks that most of us take for granted-- the ability to use his extremities such as hands and feet, the capability to dress, feed himself and take care of his personal hygiene needs without assistance from immediate and extended family members and caregivers.


While most ALS treatments are currently in research trials, lack government funding and are not FDA-approved, my uncle is fortunate enough to be participating in the NurOwn stem cell research trial at the University of Massachusetts Worcester. This trial has shown promising results for many that have participated in the past, stopping the progression and sometimes reversing the debilitating effects of ALS for these individuals. After NurOwn, my uncle may also be eligible to continue stem cell treatments outside of the United States, while we wait for the FDA to approve treatments in America. These treatments, while life-saving, are extremely expensive, totaling about $20,000 per treatment plus travel expenses. ALS shows no mercy.


At the present time, my uncle also utilizes assistive technology such as a motorized wheelchair and electric recliner to ease mobility and facilitate independence, however as time goes on, there will be an increased need for adaptive devices necessary for improving the quality of his day to day life.


In addition, a recent financial burden that has been placed on the Pallifrones is the need for a wheelchair-accessible bathroom and converted mini-van. This bathroom renovation and van are both extremely costly, but essential for my uncle's independence, mobility and ability to travel outside of the house.


This GoFundMe campaign was established to ease the financial burden on my aunt and uncle, while still allowing my uncle to receive the best technology and care available to him.


Please be aware that if you are a client of my uncle's through Edward Jones, it is company policy that donations through GoFundMe are not permissible. Please contact my Aunt Lori directly about the specific rules and restrictions regarding the donation process.


Thank you for any financial support you can provide, along with your constant prayers and positive thoughts.


On behalf of my Uncle Todd, Aunt Lori, Natalie, Zach and all of those who love them, our sincerest and deepest gratitude.



--Amelia Paas and the entire Pallifrone, Paas, Crandall and Wetzel families.