On January 29 2009, Barb Duffy was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis); more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a debilitating disease that affects the motor neurons which are responsible for sending messages from the brain to the muscles; preventing the person from performing even the simplest daily functions. This devastating news was heartbreaking for Barb, her husband Dan and their three children, Luke, Hallie and Emily.

Barb (O'Neil) Duffy grew up in Evergreen Park. She attended St. John Fisher, Mother McAuley ('79) and Illinois State University. Barb has spent her entire professional life helping children with special needs. As a Special Education teacher in the Oak Lawn school district she taught for 15 years before taking time off to raise her three beautiful children. Eight years ago she reentered the work force at Marist High School where she became the Learning Resource Director; a position she holds today. As an educator, Barb loves her career and has worked extremely hard developing programs for at-risk students. Because of Barb's efforts, many teens have been given the opportunity to reach their full academic potential.

Barb's strong faith and positive attitude is helping her to battle this disease. Western medicine says there is no cure for ALS but there are people with ALS (PALS) who have survived for greater than 20 years. Barb plans to be among them. Alternative medicine does offer options in the fight against ALS but these are not covered under medical insurance.

With your support, The Benefit to Support Barb's Battle will help raise awareness for ALS and ensure that Barb's medical, personal and family's needs will be taken care of. We thank you and appreciate your support for this worthwhile cause.

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