A Life of Service, A Journey of Strength: Renee’s ALS Story

How do I begin to talk about one of the most special people I know, who is so selfless, loving, and giving? And she’s got a heart of gold, full of love and the patience of a saint.  

Renee is not only my sister-in-law, but she’s a dear friend as well.  Renee is an incredible nurse who started out in the Army during Desert Storm, then transferred to the Air Force. At the same time, she worked in the ER at Buffalo General Hospital. She left there to work at the VA in their ER. She was a huge supporter and advocate of all the veterans who came through those doors.

Renee started noticing patients coming into the ER with ALS symptoms, so she started a committee to begin research to take a closer look at what was happening. A few months later, Renee started to witness symptoms herself… with her right hand. Unfortunately, it was during COVID in 2020. It was very difficult for Renee to get to doctors and specialists to pursue this issue. She ended up diagnosing herself and then got confirmation from another doctor. This time, it was Renee with ALS. 

A tough phone call she had to make to all of her family and loved ones. But she’s got more support from more people than anybody I’ve ever met. Here we are six years later, and she’s still fighting. Six years ago, I became her primary caregiver and took Renee to her appointments and surgeries. And did daily care. We became even closer through this. We had many laughs and many tears.

But through it all, Renee has stayed so positive. Her faith has deepened. She never complains. Sometimes we don’t understand why things happen, and especially to good people, but what I do know is that she has taught us all a lesson, and that is to love and appreciate each day. Trust in God. And to always be a close, loving family.

Submitted by Patti Jurek, Renee’s sister-in-law and dear friend

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