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Hometown, state: Los Angeles, Calif.
Age: 69
Family (spouse/partner; child, grandchildren): Wife, Vivian, and two grown children, two grandchildren.
Hobbies/Interests: Working with my “MDA girls” on my Cap’n Bob’s Voyage fundraiser; golf; spending time with my grandkids; spending time on my boat; investments.
Favorite quote: “Everything happens for a reason.”
Date of ALS diagnosis: October 2007
Tell us about your life before ALS: Prior to serving as president of Donato Financial Services, I was the executive vice president of Paine Webber, Inc. I also served on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Countrywide Financial Corp. I was an avid golfer and very into baseball (still am). Family and friends have always been most important to me.
Tell us about your life with ALS: Since this diagnosis, my wife and I have decided to dedicate much of our lives to develop Cap’n Bob’s Voyage, a campaign that will raise at least $1,000,000 through galas, walk teams and letter writing campaigns with MDA. My family and friends have been incredibly passionate about this cause and have been supportive beyond belief. I still spend a lot of time on the golf course, but am limited in my playing abilities. Still, the Bel Air Country Club is a favorite spot of mine. I wake up every day with a great appreciation for my wife, children and grandchildren and am excited about the many great moments to come.
Do you have a “life motto” or profound words to live by? “Let this be a catalyst to find the cure!”
Has there been an “aha!” moment or a specific turn of events that has helped you live with ALS? Our first fundraiser was the Tradition of Hope Gala in Los Angeles. My friends and family filled so many tables and were delighted to help our cause. At this point, I realized that we could truly make a difference.
Tell us how ALS has brought new significance to any aspect of your life — family, attitude, hobbies/passions, career, etc.: My attitude toward my family is unchanging; they have always been there for every “up” and “down” moment of my life. I am incredibly thankful for the support I have received. ALS has solidified what I’ve already known: I have a support team that will always remain by my side.
Is there anything else about you and/or ALS that you want to share with people who read your story? Everyone can make a difference. Use YOUR story as a catalyst for the cure.
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