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I am Brendan Hardy

a family member of someone we've lost to ALS

North Carolina


I gained a true appreciation for every moment I was able to spend with her, whether we were taking her devoted chihuahua for a walk, seeing her beloved James Taylor live in concert, or simply enjoying a movie together in our living room.

I read recently that Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying “All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” This beautiful sentiment perfectly describes the place that my wonderful mom Nell Tredway Hardy will forever hold in my heart. So many life lessons I have learned along the way have been influenced and shaped from our loving relationship I am so grateful to have had for so many years.

Early in my childhood, my mom served as an example of hard work and discipline as she raised 3 wild boys and kept a roof over our heads while giving all she had to anything she put her mind to. She served as a constant model of selflessness, as she often put the interests and activities of her children ahead of her own so that we could explore and develop our passions in this world. My mom empowered me to pursue the gift of higher education, as her employment at a local university gave me access to an affordable and invaluable college experience.

As I attempted to navigate the unfamiliar and challenging college world with all its academic demands and constant distractions, my mom served as an ever-present rock on campus that I could always lean on for advice, companionship, or simply just a bright and cheerful smile on a tough day. Our unshakeable bond was challenged to the core during those college days, as we learned of my mom’s ALS diagnosis in 2009. True to form, with grace, acceptance, and determination, she would then wage a courageous 8-year battle against the disease during which I believe our relationship truly blossomed into the blessing I still cherish to this day.

Through her endless smile, optimism, and love she freely gave to all in her presence during her illness, my mom served as a true example of perseverance and victory in the face of the inevitable trials of life. I was fortunate enough to richly enjoy her love and companionship during the last years of her life through simple serendipities such as an encouraging word from her computerized speech device or a loving smile over FaceTime.

I gained a true appreciation for every moment I was able to spend with her, whether we were taking her devoted chihuahua for a walk, seeing her beloved James Taylor live in concert, or simply enjoying a movie together in our living room. During the years of my mom’s ALS journey, her passion and zeal to live her life to the fullest every day allowed everyone she touched to unite around the common goal of ALS awareness and advocacy, and I am truly grateful for how my family has been forever strengthened by her example.

It is my earnest hope and prayer that my mom’s gentle and comforting spirit will continue to guide my life, and that her memory will forever serve as a source of inspiration, love, and grace in the hearts of everyone that was fortunate enough to know her.


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