From Coast to Coast: Dean Mauriello Drives ALS Awareness in Tribute to His Mother

Dean Mauriello is shining “a light on the resilience, diversity, and daily challenges of people living with ALS—one heartfelt, on‑camera story at a time—while also raising funds for ALS United’s patient services and research.” That is Dean’s mission, and he is well on his way. His solo drive across the country from the Atlantic to the Pacific is a tribute to his mother, whom he calls “limitless” Lisa. Along the route, he is setting up interviews with people living with ALS to capture their stories and connect around their shared experiences.

His mother, Lisa Stockman Mauriello, was a longtime healthcare PR advocate, nationally recognized as a powerful figure in the healthcare field. She was named a “Luminary” by the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association in 2016. After her diagnosis of ALS, she continued to champion patients, bringing necessary visibility to the disease and advocating for access to the drug Tofersen. Lisa passed away in August 2021.

Dean’s impact began locally in Summit, New Jersey, with a fundraiser at his high school. After graduating this spring, he was ready to scale up his campaign. Dean will attend Penn State, then UNC at Chapel Hill, his mother’s alma mater. The school established an undergraduate health communications certificate program in her memory, aptly named “Legacy for Lisa,” as her work in the field made an enduring impact.

We here at ALS United Greater New York are proud to maintain connections with families like Dean’s, who continue to passionately advocate for people living with ALS. His efforts fuel research, advocacy, and care services for those living with ALS in the Greater New York area. We wish him luck and safe travels as he makes his way to the West Coast. You can follow his journey here and support his mission on his fundraising page here.

Do you have an idea on how to raise awareness and funds for our care, research, and advocacy programs at ALS United Greater New York? Check out Fundraise Your Way.