The ASAP Daisies would like to remember Andrew Ragan who recently passed away from his battle with ALS. Andrew was diagnosed with ALS in 2006 and we were fortunate enough to meet Andrew and his family at our Art for ALS event last summer. At the event Andrew shared his thoughts with us on ALS and his battle. We will forever remember Andrew – his words were inspiring and humbling.
As a tribute to Andrew, we would like to share the speech he shared with us:
“When you are thinking of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, it is probable you’re not equating it to art. ALS isn’t pretty. But then again art isn’t always about aesthetics. Artisans used many means of expression to convey their personal perspectives. Making life interesting and provocative. I still hear the echo of laughter as my art history professor was stating the differences between nude and porn is only the staples.
As a person living with ALS and being “locked in”, creativity is a challenge. My canvas is my mental attitude. An edge-less canvas which I try to fill with images of hope. Hope is a powerful resource and the staff of Saint Peter’s ALS center fosters individually. Thank you for supporting the 140 families they guide through this journey. This art show fundraiser is a great opportunity to get a visual perspective from another person’s expressions that has been affected by ALS. Many times the surviving family are emotionally and spiritually drained. I am looking forward to seeing the pieces that keeps that bond alive. I do believe each of us have a symbiotic relationship with others. This leads me to my tattoo story, since it is art too!
I have a caregiver who has bonded with us. She was asking my opinion for her adding to a new beautiful flower she had just had inked. She felt something was missing. I suggested a humming bird and a bee. Not realizing I was being stealthy looking to support the long-term couple’s quest for children. Two weeks later on vacation with her new “bird’s & bee’s” tattoo a call came. They had been selected as adoption parents. Ironically the mother had an inclination to name a daughter Ragan. Thank God it is a boy!
You never really know who or what influence you may have on a given situation. Your continuous support to the center is greatly appreciated. Until the day comes where every 90 seconds someone isn’t diagnosed globally your help will be needed. Thank you again for contributions towards Saint Peter’s ALS Center. Without you families like mine will journey this alone and have far less HOPE!
Thank you,
Andrew Ragan
