Support for Tom Carmody's Fight Against ALS

Hi Everyone! I'm starting a GoFundMe in the wake of some rough news received by one of Maine's favorite figures, Tom Carmody. For those who aren't aware (which is pretty much everyone outside of immediate family), Big Tom was just diagnosed with ALS. ALS is a progressive disease in which a person’s brain loses connection with the muscles, slowly taking away their ability to move, speak, eat, and eventually breathe. Today, Tom is still quite mobile and able to drive, walk, and communicate effectively, but the nature of this disease means the ability for him to perform daily routines and tasks will deteriorate at an unpredictable rate. Needless to say, the Carmody family is being faced with some incredibly challenging times with serious emotional and financial implications. When the news was shared with me a couple days ago, it truly broke my heart.

When I was growing up, the Carmody family was an instrumental part of my teenage and early-adult life. I probably spent more time in high school at the Carmody's house than my own. Tom and his wonderful wife Kim were like a 2nd set of parents for me. Tom frequently took me and his sons on fishing trips all throughout Maine and even as far away as Florida. Tagging along on these trips, he always treated me like another son. I always had a bed to sleep on, food to eat, and even an extra fishing pole that he'd always tie a lure to. Big Tom is an incredible father and grandfather to his 3 boys and 6 grandchildren. I've seen firsthand the difficulty TJ, Mike and Dan have had processing everything that's taking place. I can't imagine how difficult it will be for the grandchildren to navigate these same emotional waters. I'm sure Big Tom will continue to be present in their lives, despite the existential challenges. Back in the day he was always present, supporting his boys in school, sports, and life.

As things continue to change over the next few weeks and months, the Carmody family will need to adapt. Unfortunately, the financial burden of ALS is overwhelming. Medical bills, home modifications, specialized equipment, and caregiving expenses are going to flood Tom and Kim as they figure out how to get him in the most comfortable and accommodating situation. This money will be used for exactly that. Getting them relocated to a more functional home and making plans to go to the Healey Center for ALS in Boston to try to enter into Platform Trials and evaluate options for exploratory treatment. Then, transitioning to make sure he’s got all the right medical, transportation, and assistive devices to aid in his fight. Lastly, Tom has a couple of bucket list items he'd love to enjoy while he still can. He hopes to explore the Grand Canyon and also get back to Ireland to enjoy the land of his heritage.

If you know the Carmodys, you know they're a very tough bunch and never complain about misfortune or difficult times. They never want the attention. Getting the family to allow me to do this was like pulling teeth, so I hope we can collectively make an impact for someone who has given our community so much. Whether you know Big Tom personally, have heard of his impactful legacy in the Greater Portland Area, or are coming across this at random; please consider donating. If you don't have the means to donate, or choose not to, please consider sharing this link with your network as a way to help-- I know the Carmody Family will be forever grateful.