Honoring the Billy Lake Community
and Lake Basketball

Following the loss of Patti’s first husband, Billy Lake, to ALS in the 1990s, Patti and her family established the Billy Lake Basketball Marathon to honor Billy’s memory while raising critical funds for ALS research. Over time, Dan and his family joined in the effort, helping carry forward Billy’s legacy and the Marathon’s mission to support ALS research. What began as a tribute to one beloved person has grown into a decades-long tradition that brings people together for a shared purpose: supporting people and families affected by ALS and helping advance the search for better treatments and a cure. Since 1992, the marathon has united thousands of student-athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community supporters. Together, this extraordinary community has raised more than $1.2 million to support ALS research and educational scholarships. The marathon’s impact extends well beyond the basketball court. It has helped raise awareness of ALS, connected people through a common cause, and inspired generations of young people to use their time and talents to make a difference. Patti and Dan’s commitment to the ALS community extends far beyond the annual basketball marathon. Dan serves as Board Chair of ALS United Mid-Atlantic, providing strategic leadership and helping guide the organization’s efforts to support people living with ALS and their families while advancing its mission. Patti serves as Co-Chair and Director of the Billy Lake Memorial ALS Research Fund, continuing her family’s enduring commitment to investing in promising ALS research and helping move the field forward.