It is with great sadness that we share the news that long-time AlphaNet Coordinator Darrell Nall passed away on Sunday, January 17th at the age of 69. Darrell was a friend to many and was known for his generous spirit and his tireless commitment to helping his fellow Alphas.
“Darrell made a lasting impact on the Alpha-1 community. He always went above and beyond to help countless Alphas in need of education, resources, and assistance navigating issues with augmentation therapy supplies and delivery. He was the true embodiment of Alphas Serving Alphas. He will be sorely missed by all who had the distinct pleasure of knowing him,” AlphaNet Board Chairman Robert L. Greene, Jr. said.
Darrell was diagnosed with Alpha-1 in 1996 by a radiologist at a clinic after spending ten years searching for answers from numerous doctors as to why his lung health was deteriorating so rapidly. Upon receiving a confirmatory Alpha-1 diagnosis from a pulmonologist, Darrell attended his first Alpha-1 Education Day that same year in Chicago and met AlphaNet General Manager Terry Young. Terry told Darrell about AlphaNet and encouraged Darrell to quit smoking so that he could qualify for augmentation therapy. Upon quitting, Terry helped facilitate Darrell’s infusions. In 1999, Darrell joined AlphaNet as a volunteer, where he became the liaison between AlphaNet and the specialty pharmacy that shipped augmentation therapy to Alphas.
As the AlphaNet specialty pharmacy liaison, Darrell was the primary point of contact for the Coordinators to help them resolve subscriber insurance issues and infusion supply concerns. He also provided much-needed resources to newly-diagnosed Alphas. Darrell was instrumental in helping streamline the flow between ordering drugs and supplies and ensuring their timely delivery. Additionally, he assisted Alphas with their oxygen needs at Alpha-1 National Conferences.
Darrell received a double lung transplant in 2003 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. He was an avid gun collector who enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, and spending time with his friends and family.
Darrell is survived by his two daughters and his nine grandchildren.
Funeral plans have not yet been announced.
Darrell Nall’s Obituary
