USA 250: "Postage" Poster

In October 2023, Derek McManus received the devastating diagnosis of ALS at just 53 years old. He went from being an extremely active person, successful and busy in his career and  enjoying outdoor activities to being wheelchair bound and dependent on others for activities of daily living.  He is also a sports lover, his favorites being the Detroit Tigers and of course he is a lifelong Bills fan as are his family. He was recently gifted the opportunity to visit the new Highmark Stadium and it was a wonderful evening. 

He has since had to give up his career and go on disability after losing his voice to ALS. He maintains a positive attitude and makes an effort to bring awareness to ALS and the need for funding, research and support services to those living with the disease.  He has done this through outreach with his social media pages, Derek’s ALS Army. He has made the decision to live his life to the fullest despite the devastation of this disease.  

As he continues on his journey, his level of care continues to increase and the out of pocket cost of that care is astronomical. He is honored to have 26 Shirts design a shirt and run a campaign in support of his care needs. 

Growing up having a passion for crafts and sports, interning for 26 Shirts was the perfect fit for Del. 26 Shirts gives her the creative freedom to design Buffalo-based art while also giving back to the community that she was raised in. When she’s not in the office, you can find her crafting or playing volleyball with her fiancé.