Leah Griffin

The Share the Care of Leah Scholarship Fund honors those loving friends of Leah Griffin who shared in her care while she battled ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2006–09. Leah’s story in battling ALS focused upon love, kindness, and patience. She was not a victim but a fighter. She was emotionally resilient and sustained by her faith. Leah died on Monday, May 18, 2009, living 38 months after her diagnosis of ALS—32 months longer than the six months she was given.

Leah’s husband and the donor of the fund, Ken Griffin, wrote: “To my wife of 47 years, thanks for the memories and the blessings you have given me. Your death this afternoon was bitter sweet. I will always admire your courage and love during these last days. Today, you were a gracious hostess to the several dozen friends and family who joined together to support you, and each other, in the ICU. Each time a new visitor arrived at your bedside and greeted you, your eyes twinkled and your smile drew them close. I was never more proud of you and your display of dignity, grace, and love than during those final hours. You know I believe that there is a God of Love. You were God’s gift to me. And, what a gift! To you, my lover and my friend, you will be in my heart for all eternity.”