May is ALS Awareness Month: Jamie Barrow’s Strength in the Climb

ALS United Rocky Mountain’s Interview Featuring Jamie Barrow, Living with ALS Since 2018

This May, as we honor ALS Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting the powerful voices and lived experiences of those in our ALS community. We asked Jamie Barrow, an adventurer, mountaineer, and person living with ALS since 2018, to share his story—and what strength means to him.

What is something you’ve accomplished since your diagnosis that you’re especially proud of?
“I’m proud of so many things! I can still walk independently, even though my mobility is always changing. Hiking, climbing, and skiing were always a huge part of my life, and I’m grateful to still enjoy them. This past summer, I revived my passion for mountaineering with a few climbs—including the summit of Mt. Flora and an adventure to Chasm Lake on Longs Peak, with the help of many incredible volunteers.”

How has your perspective on life changed since being diagnosed with ALS?
“As a lifelong mountaineer, I’ve always been prepared for endurance and adapting to change. ALS is much the same. Now I adventure with a wheelchair and adaptive tools, but the mindset remains the same: persevere and adapt.”

What is one misconception about ALS that you wish more people understood?
“When I tell people I have ALS, they often say, ‘I hope you get better.’ I wish more people understood that this disease is progressive and 100 percent fatal.”

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with others living with ALS?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That’s the biggest hurdle. Most people genuinely want to help—you just have to let them.”

How has your community supported you?
“I’m constantly amazed by the people who show up—from the volunteers who help me hike, to my partner Melanie, who supports me every day, to those who donate to fight this disease. That support means the world to me.”

Despite ALS, what continues to bring you joy or purpose?
“My family and friends give me great purpose and joy.”

Jamie’s story is a powerful reminder that while ALS may change the path, it doesn’t take away the drive to keep moving forward. His resilience, honesty, and love for adventure reflect the spirit of so many in the ALS community. As we honor ALS Awareness Month, let’s carry Jamie’s words with us—support one another, embrace adaptability, and never underestimate the strength it takes to keep showing up. Together, we can continue to uplift those living with ALS and work toward a future without it.