Mackenzie worked with professional poet and writer, Wendy Angulo to develop a public speech, “Finding Purpose Through Pain,” which tells the story of her experience as a caregiver for her late mother with ALS.
A: I wanted to share my ALS story in order to help other children and young adults, who have or have had a loved one with ALS. I want them to know that they are not alone and empower them to express themselves creatively, as it is extremely therapeutic!
A: ALSO US has impacted me by giving me the confidence to share my story on a bigger platform than ever before. I would not be able to do this without the support of my mentor, Wendy, and the rest of the ALSO US team.
My favorite part of working with Wendy is the incredible writing advice and encouragement she has given me throughout the process.
A: My best piece of advice for other teens and young adults impacted by someone with ALS is to remember to be a kid. I gained this advice from a doctor at Camp HLC, and have tried to keep it in mind ever since. ALS makes child caregivers grow up faster than they should have to, and they need to remember to take time to still enjoy high school and young life.
