The Diane LaMotte ALS Foundation was started September 14, 2005, the day Diane LaMotte passed away. With Diane's blessings, her husband Keith donated one of her two transfer lift systems to another ALS family desperately in need of assistance. Since that time the Foundation has helped numerous other Central Florida ALS families with equipment and guidance.
Diane LaMotte was 43 years old when she died of ALS. She was a unique individual who always put others needs before her own, even to the very end. Diane and Keith came to realize that the need for specialized equipment, respite care funds, advice and guidance for ALS patients and their families was a much needed service. They discussed what was needed and the best way to go about raising funds so other ALS families would never have to suffer some of the hardships that inevitably come their way from this horrible disease. |
Keith and Diane, 2002 |
Keith, Diane, and Amanda, 2001 |
Diane was born January 14, 1962 in Atlanta, Georgia. Her father was the renowned "Wayne Cochran" of "Wayne Cochran and the CC Riders" fame. After graduating from high school in Miami, Florida, Diane joined the CC Riders for a couple of years when she met Keith and they began performing together. Diane and Keith toured North America with their very own Vegas Style Show Band playing venues throughout the USA including the casinos in Atlantic City, numerous Playboy Clubs throughout the US and Caesar’s Palace Resorts.
In 1986, Diane and Keith settled down in Orlando, Florida and shortly afterwards their daughter Amanda was born. Continuing to perform locally while raising Amanda, their lives were rewarding and fun filled until November 7, 2002, the day of Diane's tragic ALS diagnosis. As you would expect their lives came to a screeching halt. After a few days of shock, Diane's determination and her uplifting attitude came back and never faltered, carrying her loved ones through her final days. |
Diane consoled those around her instead of the other way around. She continued to go places, be involved at school and business all the way up until 3 days before her death. She never wavered in her determination to live her days to the absolute fullest. To say she was an inspiration to everyone who came in contact with her would be an understatement.
Following Diane's death, Keith has continued to develop the Diane LaMotte ALS Foundation. The ALS families that have received equipment from the foundation never spend one penny on the equipment, shipping or repair. All related costs are covered by the Foundation.
The ultimate goal of the Diane LaMotte ALS Foundation is to fulfill Diane and Keith's dream to raise sufficient funds for Respite Care and to provide the necessary specialized equipment for any Central Florida ALS family who requests it. |
Keith and Diane, 1987 Album Cover |
