Diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) or better known as Lou Gerhig's disease in 2013, Pat knew that his prognosis was uncertain, but that one thing was sure – his love for his soulmate Tikky. ALS slowly takes away muscular function making everyday activities difficult and eventually impossible. They would marry shortly thereafter, and she would remain his loving and doting caregiver, and best-friend until his last breath passing peacefully at home on November 26, 2018 at the age of 49 years old.
Even as ALS daily took a greater toll on his body, Pat never became a victim to his story, but through his wittiness and humor, he remained completely transparent of its devastating effects, creating a community more educated about this disease, bringing awareness into our homes and hearts.
Pat had many accomplishments in life, a licensed plumber, electrician, and member of the IBEW Local 102 for 16 years, with his most recent employment at Star-Lo. His deep commitment to his community-at-large was evident as he sat on several city boards and his hands-on involvement in AA/NA, helping those in their recovery.
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He was born in St. Louis, MO, growing up in Columbus, OH until he moved to Morristown, NJ. He attended the Morris School District as a student of both Frelinghuysen Junior High School and graduating with Morristown High School’s Class of 1987.
The Class of 1987 will be honoring Pat’s life through offering a scholarship to a MHS student who currently has medical challenges to assist them with attending college, with a preference to a student who directly is impacted by ALS.
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A GoFundMe has raised over $2,000 of the $5,000 goal to-date. The Patrick Christopher Donaghy Memorial Scholarship will be awarded during Morristown High School’s annual Scholarship Award Night in June. A portion of the money will also go to his wife Tikky who left working full-time to provide long-term care for Pat.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 16, 2019 at which time the family will be presented with the proceeds of the donations.