This holiday season, we invite you to share in a powerful reminder of what hope can truly mean. Our Season of Hope campaign features the inspiring story of the Caldwell family, who graciously share a personal letter about their journey and the hope that carries them forward. Their words shine a light on the strength, resilience, and love that this season is all about.

Nona's Crew

We had just celebrated our son’s wedding in the Fall of 2023 when I started noticing from time to time my speech was off and I had trouble swallowing. I had thought nothing of it until February of 2024, when I almost choked.

For the next six months, I underwent blood work, tests, scans, and everything was coming up negative! I was frustrated and scared, how could this be? I knew something was wrong, and my symptoms were getting worse, yet no one could give me an answer.

After seeing another Neurologist, he referred me to Dr. Heiman-Patterson at Temple, and she was the answer to my prayers. The first time I saw Dr. Patterson, she looked over all my tests, examined me, and diagnosed me with PLS. We were relieved and hoped it would stay that way. Over time, my symptoms got worse, I have lost my voice, and I am tube-fed as I have no feeling in my tongue anymore.

This past September, our worst fears came to be, the PLS had progressed to ALS. While my daughter and husband sat there crying in that room, all I could think was that I was not going to let this disease defeat me. There is so much in my life worth living for: my husband, our four children, and seven grandchildren, who all hope their Nona will be with them for many years to come.

With my loving family and the amazing and supportive team of Dr. Heiman-Patterson and her staff at Temple, we have hope and once you choose hope, anything is possible.

God bless you all,

Nancy & The Caldwell Family

2025 Season of Hope