We wanted to share the personal stories of Betty's Run for ALS's top fundraisers over the past two years, as we haven't been able to present plaques in person at the events. Please check out their stories below - thank you so much to everyone that participated and donated in 2020 and 2021. We can't wait to be together in person again next year!
2020 Top Fundraisers
Colin Davis - “My mom passed away from ALS in June 2002 and the ALS Society was a huge reason how we were able to navigate through this devastating journey. I started fundraising that year and have continued up to the present day. This amazing event has kept me motivated to continue to try and help those suffering from this terrible disease. I have had much help and support along the way including one very generous anonymous donor who has matched me throughout my fundraising years, as well as many regular donors who continue to support the cause. As a tradition for the last 7 years I have been running with a good friend of mine named Scott who's now 76 years old (and still finishes the 8 kilometre run!). My prayers and thoughts go out to those who are suffering through ALS including their families and friends. Let's hope we will find a cure one day but for now but continue to reach out and make a difference where we can.”
Kimberly Howard - Team Heather’s Walkers - “In 2018, my mom (Heather Walker) was both diagnosed with and passed away from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). Throughout this difficult journey, our family was so impressed by the care and support Mom received from the medical and professional staff at the Calgary ALS Clinic at the South Calgary Hospital, and the staff and volunteers of the ALS Society of Alberta who supported all of us along the way.
We certainly saw their mission in action and I will continue to support the ALS Society going forward.
ALS affects every patient differently, but it is commonly a physically debilitating disease and patient care often involves significant equipment and support. The ALS Society of Alberta was there with my Mom (and all of us) every step of the way. People stepped up and gave generously long before Mom was diagnosed, which allowed the ALS Society to provide the necessary supports in her journey. We fundraise in her memory to ensure that someone who just found out, or is about to find out that they have ALS, will have the support they need in their journey.”
2021 Top Fundraisers
Jane Rivest - Individual - “In early summer 1996, my dear friend Betty Norman had a gathering to which she invited her close friends. She had been diagnosed with ALS and wanted us all to know. I offered to visit Betty one day a week to help with whatever – Betty said yes! I did laundry, took Betty wherever she needed or wanted to go, and did anything that she asked me to help her with. When she needed more care, she asked me if I would like to be her caregiver – during the week – and I emotionally said yes. Betty progressed quickly so we were always having to adapt to changes.
Betty wanted to make a difference so in March 1997, a group of her family and friends met to organize the first Betty’s Run for ALS – called “This One’s for Betty.” It was held June 22, 1997. Betty was unable to attend, but she was pleased about the ALS awareness and the money raised because of the run. Sadly, Betty passed away July 6, 1997 just 2 weeks after the run.
In January 1998, I was hired by the ALS Society as the client service coordinator for Southern Alberta. Over the next 22 years, each and every person with ALS who allowed me to travel their ALS journey with them had a huge impact on my life and for this, I am sincerely humbled and will always be grateful.
When I retired in 2018, I had worked with close to 1,000 people with ALS. So, here it is – 25 years as a volunteer on the Betty’s Run committee and 1,000 people who allowed me into their lives. In honour of these wonderful people, I decided to walk 1,000 km. While I walked, I spent a lot of the time thinking of all these many people who enriched my life.” Thank you, Jane, for your years of dedication and for your astounding accomplishment to mark the 25th anniversary of Betty’s Run.
Chantel Hambrook - Team Barclay - “Two years ago, my mom and I went on a casual run when she told me the heartbreaking news. My heart stopped. It felt like a piece of my heart was now being stripped of me. My father and I have always been very close. He has always been my role model, especially in how he treats people and in his core values.
For almost two years, he hasn't been out of the house because he has lost all mobility. He now relies on a breathing machine 24/7. My mom his been his primary caregiver and works tirelessly day and night.
We make the most of time by doing things my dad loves, whether it be reading Tom Clancy books, talking about the market, entertaining him with karaoke, or remembering great memories through pictures. There are several other families that have to experience many of the same struggles.
What we have learned:
The biggest thing we can all learn is that life is extremely precious. Make the most out of every day. Value, respect, and show love the great friends, family, co-workers, and people around you. Don’t sweat the small stuff because it really doesn’t matter. Time and life is so precious. Live it well.”
