Derek's ALS Army

10/16/2026

Hello Army!

We are holding a fundraising raffle for a chance at one of eight unique baskets! In honor of our dad’s 3-year diagnosis anniversary, we’re selling chances to help support him and his care and to win a great prize👏🏼

Tickets will be $20 for one or $53 for 3 to recognize his age at diagnosis and his 3 years of living with ALS💙

Each basket has been carefully chosen, based on our dad’s favorite things! All apparel and bags were graciously donated by Kabric’s in an effort to support our dad on his journey🫶🏼

To purchase raffle tickets, simply send your payment through Venmo, then comment on the raffle photo that you’re interested in! The drawing for all of the baskets will be on 11/14- Dad’s birthday!
( -McManus-1 on Venmo! )

Any funds raised will be utilized to cover the continued out of pocket costs for his care and treatment! Thank you all for your love and support throughout this journey- we couldn’t do it without you guys❤️

ALS DOES NOT WIN TODAY!

10/05/2026

20 years ago today, Steve Gleason blocked a punt in the Superdome — a play that became one of the most iconic moments in Saints history.

20 years later, that play represents something so much bigger than football🤍

Steve turned the fight of his life into a fight for an entire community. Through Team Gleason, his advocacy and his determination to improve life with ALS, countless lives have been changed — and extended — through access to technology, equipment, resources, experiences, and support. Our family is just one of so many that has felt the impact of everything Steve has done.

So today, Dad is wearing #37 as the Saints take the field. Celebrating an incredible moment in football history, but even more so, the incredible legacy that followed⚜️🏈

ALS DOES NOT WIN TODAY!

09/29/2026

Thank goodness, ACT for ALS has passed. Thanks for all the support!

09/27/2026

It’s football Sunday!
Let’s go Buffalo❤️💙🏈

09/24/2026

This amazing organization Bridging Voice is a first stop for technology assistance for anyone battling ALS. Thank you for sharing my story!

09/14/2026

Many have asked me to post this video of my speech yesterday. I was selected this year to be the walk ambassador and I was asked say a few words. Please enjoy

09/14/2026

09/14/2026

As I celebrate a Tigers win and a great dub for the Bills, I am so overwhelmed with what a great
weekend it was. Yesterday ‘ s ALS walk was one of the most emotional and proudest moments
of my life. The unbelievable generosity surpassed last year’s goal and in two years Derek’s ALS
army has raised just under $80,000. We also had over 100 walkers as the army was there in
great force.
Our family is so blessed to receive all of this love and support. If I didn’t get to chat with you, I
apologize but just know I saw you. My eyes still work 😀. Oh and don’t be sad about my tears
yesterday, they were happy tears. Words will never be able to show the gratitude to all of you
for the various types of support you have given, big or small. Many thanks to the donors, the
walkers and helpers. I love all of you.

(More photos being added!)