Betty's Run for ALS
THANK YOU for your support of the 29th Annual Betty’s Run for ALS!
2025 Ambassador, Laurie Ferguson!
Each year, the Betty’s Run for ALS Committee selects an Ambassador, who helps raise awareness about what it is like to live with ALS. We are proud to introduce Laurie Ferguson as the 2025 Ambassador for the 29th Annual Betty’s Run for ALS!
Almost two years ago, I received a life-changing diagnosis—ALS. The journey since has been a rollercoaster of challenges, unexpected moments, and incredible support. Looking back, the signs were there. In February 2023, stepping onto a curb became difficult—something I dismissed at first. By spring, frequent falls raised concerns, and in May, I voiced them to my doctor. He reassured me it was aging, but I knew there was more.
Frustration led me to the E.R. in October, determined to be heard. A fourth-year resident took my concerns seriously, noting my family history—my mother’s ALS diagnosis in 2001. That moment changed everything. A referral to Neurology set things in motion. Just one month later, my sister and I sat across from Dr. Jewett as he confirmed what I had suspected: Familial ALS. From that moment, the ALS Clinic at South Health Campus became my lifeline.
Thanks to research advancements, and support from the ALS Society of Alberta, I have access to resources my mother never had—a comforting thought. Through it all, my friends and family are my greatest strength. What could have been a dark time is a reminder to embrace life. Inspired, I checked off a bucket-list adventure: an Alaskan cruise!
ALS has changed my path but not my spirit. With my community and the ALS Society of Alberta behind me, I move forward with gratitude. I’m honoured to be the 2025 Betty’s Run for ALS Ambassador and invite you to join me on June 8. Whether you walk, run, donate, or cheer, your support makes a difference. Let’s stand together for those living with ALS today and for a future without this disease.
About Betty’s Run for ALS
Betty's Run for ALS celebrates, promotes and channels hope for those affected with ALS, their families and their friends.
Twenty-seven years ago, Betty Norman had a wish to find a cure for ALS. In spite of her own battle with the disease, Betty unselfishly used her time and energy to bring her vision to life. In Betty’s own words, “I remain determined. I have an important need to find some meaning in my altered life and maybe a justification as to why I was given this horrible disease. I want to make a difference in the time that I have left and possibly help future people with ALS.”
Hundreds of families, volunteers and supporters have carried the torch forward to make Betty’s Run an event that inspires care, hope and community. This grassroots event laid the financial foundation to enable the ALS Society of Alberta to grow in its support of people living with ALS across Alberta. Since the first run, families have raised more than $8.5 million for research, equipment and client support services.
Who is Betty?
Betty Norman was an active 58-year-old Calgarian when she was diagnosed with ALS in August of 1996. Betty's courage and determination to make a difference was the driving force behind the June 1997 "This One's for Betty" walk/run. Sadly, Betty passed away within 11 months of her diagnosis and two weeks after the event that she inspired took place.
Determined to continue Betty's unwavering spirit, the organizing committee unanimously decided to hold an event every year in Betty's memory and honour. They also wanted to raise much needed funds to support the many other Albertans currently living with or affected by ALS. This is how the annual Betty's Run for ALS was born.
Sponsorship
Coming soon!
Betty’s Run for ALS is made possible by a wonderful group of sponsors. If your brand would like to partner with Betty’s Run for ALS, please review our sponsorship opportunities here or reach out to info@alsab.ca
