News & Stories
For those who knew Mickey Johnston—better known as “Shy Tuna”—he was the kind of person who made everyone feel like a friend. He had a gift for spreading joy, making people smile, and reminding others they weren’t alone. When Mickey was diagnosed with ALS, he refused to let the disease define him. Instead, he found another way to serve others.
Armed with some colorful dyes and a passion for making a difference, Mickey created the Shy Dye Love Ministry. He was able to send handmade tie-dye shirts to people affected by ALS in more than 14 countries. Every shirt was unique, but the message behind each one was the same: You are seen. You are loved. You are not alone.
That colorful mission continues today.
Two years ago, Mickey’s daughter, Allison, created Team Shy Tuna to honor the incredible impact he made on so many lives. While the team walks in his memory, they’re also walking to keep his spirit alive—one rooted in kindness, compassion, laughter, and hope.
“We walk to continue his legacy,” Allison shared. “We walk to share his story. We walk to use our voice for those who can’t and to fight for a cure.”
For Allison, Walk ALS is more than an annual event. It’s an opportunity to stay connected to the values her father lived every day while helping other families navigating the same journey.
“Supporting the ALS community through the walk helps me feel connected to my dad and the values that he lived by,” she said. “Being able to help make an impact for other families facing ALS helps us turn that pain into purpose and turn that grief into action.”
Every dollar raised through Walk ALS helps ALS United of Georgia provide free programs, services, advocacy, and support for people living with ALS and their loved ones across the state. For Team Shy Tuna, those efforts are another way to continue the work Mickey cared so deeply about—bringing hope to families when they need it most.
Team Shy Tuna continues to walk—not only to remember Mickey Johnston, but to celebrate the legacy he left behind. A legacy that reminds us kindness is contagious, hope can be shared, and even the smallest act of compassion can brighten someone’s day.
Inspired by Team Shy Tuna’s story?
Join us at walkALS Georgia! Whether you’re walking in honor of a loved one, in memory of someone you’ve lost, or to support families living with ALS in Georgia, every team has a story—and every step brings us closer to a world without ALS.
Watch, like, and SHARE the Team Battle feature reel on Instagram! Click HERE.
