David McKannan, Huntsville, Alabama
David McKannan
My life isn’t over yet.” So said David McKannan, one-time defense industry professional, who now works as an ALS advocate. Today, McKannan, 56, collaborates with the Alabama Chapter to educate the public about the disease and assist others living with ALS.
For its annual “ALS Across America” campaign in May, which is ALS Awareness Month, the chapter is honoring McKannan and his wife and caregiver, Maureen. McKannan has lived with ALS since December 2008.
“Despite the diagnosis of ALS, David and Maureen have been exceptional advocates for The Association, our chapter, and all the people who have been affected by this disease,” said Mary Lou Kraatz, the chapter’s care services coordinator. “David personifies the statement ‘managing the disease and not the disease managing you.’” McKannan has lost the ability to speak, so he communicates with an iPad.
Kraatz calls the McKannans “year-round supporters” for the chapter. The couple has attended the chapter’s annual Walk to Defeat ALSŪ in Huntsville since 2009 cheering on Walk teams and others battling the disease who participate in this event. Even though he has lost his voice, McKannan fights for others with ALS and speaks on their behalf as a member of the chapter’s Board of Trustees. He also interacts with local industry to promote the chapter. “As a board member, David has visited several local businesses. He has used the best tool—himself—to create ALS awareness and obtain funding for our services,” said Kraatz.
In addition to these endeavors, McKannan assists families fighting ALS through attending a monthly support group in Huntsville. There, he provides his expertise in dealing with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He encourages other members of the group and teaches them how to manage the continuous losses a person with ALS encounters. “He takes these struggles and turns them into opportunities to help others. He assists people with ALS to register on the National ALS Registry. David shows his courage in planning ahead. He is making arrangements to donate his brain and spinal cord to ALS research,” Kraatz said.
As they have done during previous years, the McKannans plan to educate their community about ALS during May. In 2010, they participated in statewide advocacy efforts with chapter staff and volunteers to educate legislators and the public about the impact ALS has on people and their families.
|
