Randall Cline – 26th ALS OC Marathon Honoree

I was diagnosed with ALS in the fall of 2022 and my world was turned upside down. Not really understanding what ALS was, of course, I started to google it. Googling it still did not provide me with the information needed to understand how my life would change drastically.

Before being diagnosed, I was completely devoted to my job, towing for 44 years. Ironically enough, my tow truck number was 26. Being recognized for this marathon has an extra special significance to me. I am being recognized as the 26th marathon honoree in which I will be pushed 26.2 miles. 

With the ALS diagnosis and progression, I cannot work or take part in adventures the same way I used to. I am no longer able to control my legs and am confined to a wheelchair and I am losing the ability to use my arms. However, it doesn't stop me from living and doing things I enjoy. I still like to get out with my family and go to theme parks such as Knotts Berry Farm to escape from reality. I still get to be around my passion by working on a project car, a 1972 Jeep CJ5. I may not be able to get in there and work on the car myself, but I supervise my son and daughter-in-law and give them some pointers.

I am so grateful to my son and daughter-in-law for putting their lives on hold to care for me. 

It has been a rough journey for all of us. It helps when friends and family take time out of their day to call or stop by and visit for a little bit. I am also grateful for all the ALS Association has done for me, from support to loaning equipment.  

When life gives you ALS, you gotta keep on truckin’!

Randy Cline