It Takes A Village
A lifetime resident’s battle with ALS, and the village behind him.
Three years ago, lifetime resident Roger Odiorne was faced with a life changing diagnosis that has since severely challenged his independence and freedom of mobility and communication. Amidst his battle, his wife Cheri has been by his side. Being in the health and wellness business, Cheri has always been in tune with holistic, alternative, as well as traditional practices proven effective in healing the body, mind, and spirit. She has implemented decades of experience in her tireless charge, researching and administering treatments and lifestyle changes that could reverse, slow down, or halt the progression of this destructive disease.
However, with all the care Roger now requires, it takes a village to keep the household running smoothly. Along with an alternating staff of companionate and hardworking care workers, Coronado friends and family have shown a huge outpouring of support, sparking a daily renewal of faith and hope for Roger and Cheri. Some days it’s a parade of friends showing up with home cooked meals, to lend a hand with transport, or to walk their beloved family dog, Kai, who relishes his role as protector and support animal. He never leaves Roger’s side, except when one of his trusted pals show up with leash in hand.
Roger faces adversity with courage daily, and is living his best life through tackling obstacles, and carefully crafting solutions to his mobility and communication challenges. The Captain of United’s “Pride in the sky” International 787 Dreamliner still continues in his adventures, including getting back in the cockpit with the help of friends at Gillespie Field.
Recently, URT Clothing Coronado produced a new T-shirt design featuring Roger as the epic surfer his is, as well as the expert free diving fisherman who’s known for pulling huge monster fish from the ocean. Shirts featuring the original URT character, The Jolly Roger are available at the Coronado URT shop, just in time for Roger’s 67th birthday celebration.
With all of Cheri’s efforts, she has found a network of specialized doctors and therapists who are uncovering new and experimental treatments many patients are not aware they have access to. It is Roger and Cheri’s aim to keep fighting for reversal, and to pave a path for hope, healing, and awareness for the community affected with ALS. For anyone effected by ALS, here are some helpful sites to look into:
-To everyone who has shown up, they are eternally grateful.