December 2025
by Melissa Pezzolesi
With the help of Team Gleason Adventure, my family and I were able to visit Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
Disney might seem like an unusual dream adventure for a 48-year-old mother of two from a hockey family who used to be an active runner, but this trip meant so much more than a typical vacation.
Since being diagnosed with ALS, I have been processing who I am now and what this new journey looks like.
In many ways, this trip marked an important moment for me as I began embracing this new chapter of life while surrounded by the people who support and love me.
My favorite part of the adventure was being able to invite extended family to join us at one of our favorite vacation spots and spend time together.
My parents even traveled from Maine to be with us, and it was especially meaningful because they had never been to Disney before.
Being able to share that experience together made the trip even more special. My mom has diabetes and still smokes, which makes it a little ironic to think she might outlive me. Sometimes you have to laugh about those things.
Moments like this reminded me how important it is to make memories while we can.
I did face some challenges during the adventure, but with great support from family members and Disney staff, it became a very memorable and enjoyable experience for all of us. The staff were very accommodating and assisted us throughout our visit.
The most memorable part of Disney World for me was, despite being a person with ALS, being able to enjoy most of the rides and activities that my family and I had enjoyed many years prior. There is something truly magical about Disney.
Everyone feels special there, and for a few days we were able to focus on joy and being together instead of focusing on ALS.
This adventure meant the world to me, as it may truly be one of my last. I’m not sure whether I’ll be able to enjoy Disney again and am eternally grateful for Team Gleason’s support in making this possible.
The trip also happened around my December birthday, which made it feel even more like a celebration of life, family, and the time we have together. It meant so much not only to me, but also to my parents, who are facing the heartbreaking reality of losing their daughter. Sharing laughter, magic, and memories together during this time is something I will always treasure.
I’m not sure how I would navigate ALS without Team Gleason – thank you so much for all of your help and support!
As I continue navigating this journey, I hope to stay involved and give back in some way. I truly believe I still have a lot to offer, and organizations like Team Gleason make it possible for people like me to keep living fully.
