Basking Ridge Resident, Advocate Chronicles Life With ALS

Diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2012, Basking Ridge resident Sonal Shah has worked tirelessly as an advocate for ALS patients and their families. Now, in an effort to inspire others, Shah has chronicled her battle with ALS in a poignant biography, My Life, Legacy and ALS.

An inspiring call to action, this book will be launched at a public reception on Sunday, Feb. 8 at the Olde Mill Inn, 225 Rt. 202, Basking Ridge.

“ALS has robbed my mobility and ability in different ways, but has not been able to touch my inner strength and soul,” Shah expressed in a statement.

Sonal Shah has found a renewed sense of purpose as an outspoken advocate on behalf of all ALS patients and their families, a statement read. Despite the progressive loss of her physical abilities, Shah has summoned her considerable mental energy to craft a memoir to help others understand and cope with ALS.

Detailing her life before and after the onset of ALS, she explains how she and her family have managed challenges that they faced over the past three years. Shah’s memoir is not only a candid and inspiring call to action for ALS patients and those who love them; it is also full of practical information, a rep stated.

“While describing the stark realities of ALS, Shah challenges each of us to create our own unique legacy in our lives,” the rep added. “Hers is a legacy of joy and unexpected hope.”

Research for a cure is critically needed, as are better, less costly resources for afflicted families. A powerful advocate for the ALS community, Shah has tirelessly promoted their cause with legislators at the state and national levels. U.S. Representative Leonard Lance, who will be in attendance at the event, introduced the MODDERN Cures Act of 2013 that benefits many with diseases such as ALS. In addition, Lance and Barbara Newhouse, President and CEO of the ALS Association, wrote forewords for the book.

Distinguished guests attending the event, which will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., will also include Dr. Hiroshi Mitsumoto, Director of the MDA/ALS Research Center at the Columbia University Medical Center, representatives from the ALS Association of Greater New York Chapter and local community leaders.

The launch, which will include light refreshments, is free to attend. RSVP’s are appreciated. Please email caroline@als-sonalshah.com, or phone 908-696-0467. For more information, click here.

Headshot courtesy of Mahvash Saba. Photo of Sonal with Leonard Lance courtesy of Nirmal Shah.

Group Photo from the Walk to Defeat ALS with Team Sonal in June 2014
courtesy of Jack McCoy of the ALS Association of Greater New York Chapter. The Sonal Team were the top fundraisers for Somerset County. 


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