Angle

Issue date: 10/9/06 Section: Alumni Update

Amy Holland [Click to enlarge]

Amy Holland [Click to enlarge]

It didn't take long before the money was trickling in. Donors from across the nation were making contributions to the ALS Association (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease) in honor of Bryan Thibodeau, an ALS patient who was recently killed by the deadly disease at the young age of 28.

Anyone can view the website that tells the story of Bryan's two year battle with ALS. Many then make contributions to fund further research of the incurable neurological disease which causes total paralysis. Their money also supplies current ALS patients with necessities, such as transportation needs.

The website has helped Bryan's mother, Jacqueline Thibodeau, cope with the loss of her son. Now, Bryan's life will not be defined by ALS; rather, his death has produced an outpouring of love and charity toward others who are struggling with the disease.

"By working on the website, I was able to help this grieving mother honor her son. I know I am really impacting people's lives."

Amy Holland, a 2005 Clearwater Christian College graduate with a Communication Arts major, has a new job which travels beyond paperwork and filing cabinets. She is using her education, while giving to others.

Holland is the communication specialist for the ALS Association, Florida Chapter, and she is responsible for communicating the mission statement of the organization - "to end the devastating effects of ALS while providing programs to improve the quality of life for those living with the disease."

She handles the non-profit organization's public relations, website, newsletter, and mass communication through email.

"I love my job, especially finding stories about patients for the newsletter," Amy said. "I have also been able to increase interaction with the patients through e-mail, a new benefit the organization has never had before."

It may be difficult to interact with dying people on a daily basis, but she knows she's making a difference. Stories like Jacqueline Thibodeau's have been a constant encouragement to Amy.

A serious car accident from Amy's childhood left her sister severely handicapped. Through her interaction and relationship with her sister, Amy has gained an understanding of the challenges that ALS patients and their caregivers face.

ALS Association Florida Chapter President, Dara Alexander, has been pleased with Amy's work, bright smile, and caring spirit.

"I especially appreciate Amy's writing style. It is casual, personal, and conversational - like talking with a good friend. That style resonates with our readers."

Amy's work can be viewed at http://webfl.alsa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=FL_Events_Newsletter

Her tribute to Bryan Thibodeau is also accessible: http://web.alsa.org/site/TR?px=1199522&pg=fund&fr_id=1630

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