Morris County, NJ: It is news no human being ever wants to hear, “You’ve been diagnosed with a severe medical condition that has no known cure.”
When it does happen, it can and does change everything for the person and their family. It is news that is not easily accepted, knowing that everything you are used to doing and everything you know will never be the same again - a fate no person should endure.
But that is exactly what happened to a seemingly healthy, fit, and active law enforcement officer, Christopher Murarik.
Murarik, who is also an officer with the Army National Guard, a K9 handler, and is just 40 years old, recently received the devastating news that he has ALS, a degenerative disease. It took everyone by surprise, considering he recently and easily passed the rigorous Army physical fitness test.
“Recently, my life changed in a way I never expected. After months of tests, appointments, and uncertainty, I was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a progressive disease that affects the nerve cells responsible for controlling muscles. As of today, there is no cure,” Muraril wrote on his crowdfunding campaign.
ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that destroys the motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. This medical condition eventually leads to muscle wasting, paralysis, and the loss of essential functions like speaking, eating, and breathing.
At first glance, you would assume the crowdfunding campaign was started to help him cover the expenses that are certain to mount.
But it isn’t.
As a soldier and law enforcement officer, Murarik was built differently from the average American. He was built to serve.
“If you know me, you know that service has been a major part of my life. Long before I began my career in public service, I found purpose in helping others through 4-H, working as a special education aide, and coaching young swimmers,” he said.
His desire to help others shined through yet again, even after receiving the difficult news.
He added, “Like many people who receive this diagnosis, I was faced with two choices. I could focus only on what ALS might take away, or I could focus on what I can still do to make a difference. I chose the second option.”
Murarik has taken the noble step to pursue a journey meant to help others. He chose to pay it forward in hopes it would help people down the road.
“All proceeds from this fundraiser will be donated to the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI), a nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to ALS research and the development of effective treatments and a cure,” he said. “My hope is that the funds raised through this campaign will help researchers develop better treatments and ultimately find a cure—not only for me, but for every person and family facing this disease now and in the future.”
Jaw-Dropping Support
Murarik started his crowdfunding campaign not knowing what it would bring. We firmly believe he would be content raising any amount, as it is money that wasn’t available before the campaign.
But the support has been off the charts! In just five days, his campaign has raised an astonishing $51,000 and counting!
“I’m honestly overwhelmed by the generosity, encouragement, and kindness I’ve received. Every donation, every share, every message, and every conversation has reminded me that I’m not fighting this alone,” he wrote in an updated message to the campaign.
Since the diagnosis, Murarik has reached out to the nonprofit organization, ALS TDI, for guidance and support. Thankfully, they have been a source of relief.
“They’ve welcomed me with compassion, answered my questions, and reinforced my confidence that every dollar raised is helping push ALS research forward. I’m grateful for the relationship we’ve already begun, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the years ahead,” he said.
He continued, “When I started this fundraiser, my goal wasn’t just to raise money. It was to help accelerate research so that one day, someone else hears a different diagnosis than I did.”
God bless him. Let’s each do our part and donate HERE and share Chris Murarik’s story.
It’s a story that more than deserves to be told.
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Writer and author Eddie Molina has over 25 years of combined LEO and military service. Learn more about his interview articles at www.eddiemolina.com
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