Growing up in the small but mighty town of Strathmore, CA, Sarah was one of three children raised by loving parents who taught her resilience and strength. In August 2012, after experiencing what initially seemed like a minor weakness in his arm, Sarah’s father, Robert Arellano, was diagnosed with ALS. The news transformed their family’s life in an instant, and urged Sarah and her family to fight the disease with Robert. At the time, Sarah was six months pregnant with her son, Manuel. She had suddenly realized that Manuel would not have enough time with his grandfather, who helped shape Sarah into the person she had become.
“Without warning this changed our lives forever. In this moment, I made the decision to make the best of the time I would have left with my father and make sure my son made memories he will never forget. I spent the last year of my father’s life, by his side. There were many memories made to last a lifetime and on my part every attempt to continue without regret.”
– Sarah Marez
Sarah always knew her father to be incredibly active, loving the outdoors, an avid handyman, and a passionate cook. The father-daughter duo particularly shared a love for music and dance, especially when their favorite song came on. After his diagnosis, Robert and Sarah were constantly reminded of life before ALS. One poignant moment was on New Year’s Eve, in 2014 when their favorite song came on, but Robert was too weak to hold Sarah’s hand. Instead of their usual dancing, they sat together listening to the song, reminded of all the memories they shared.
“My father will forever be my hero and the person I strive to be like every day. If you asked anyone how they would describe my father, one of the most common attributes that comes to mind is he was dependable and giving. Giving not just of his time but his energy. He was such a selfless man and he brought so much joy into others’ lives. Near the end, my father continued to inspire us all with his courage, his sense of humor and his love of life.”
Robert lost his battle with ALS in 2015. In reflection, Sarah recognized how ALS changed her perspective on life. Watching her mother throughout the ALS, she learned how to not only be a strong person, but to continue living and fighting every day.
“My mother truly gave it her all to support and love my father until the very end. No one can judge or speak to the kind of experience she had to endure, except those going through the same thing. I would not wish this experience on anyone, but I do hope that people can learn from their experience and make the choice to help those who go through something similar. That is why 10 years later I continue to give my time and effort to support the ALS community, not only in honor of my father but also in honor of my mother.”
Since 2013, Sarah has been a tireless advocate and volunteer for the ALS Network’s Central Valley Walk & Roll to Cure ALS. She’s raised thousands of dollars and served as a volunteer coordinator, helping others find support, community, and purpose along the way. Although her father was only able to participate in two years of the event, Sarah continues to fight in his memory.
“Fundraising and spreading awareness for this disease is key. I continue to be a part of the ALS community because of the amount of support we received. One of my favorite memories is when my father took my son on a ride on the electric wheelchair provided with ALS support programs. Without the fundraising, he would not have had the opportunity to experience this joy with my son. I got to see a glimpse of happiness from him that I can carry and will forever be imprinted in my mind. Not every moment was heartbreaking because of the support we were able to receive. I encourage everyone to be a part of the ALS community.”
The ALS Network thanks Sarah and her family for their efforts to help those affected by ALS.
Like Sarah, you can help make a difference too. Volunteers are key to bringing hope, connection, and vital support to those who need it most. Sign up to volunteer, donate, or participate in one or more of our community outreach events.