Mark has always loved the outdoors - camping and fishing on summer weekends. He enjoys biking at Fish Creek Park and mountain biking at Kananaskis. He is a handyman (plumber, electrician, carpenter you name it), and an auto mechanic. At dusk, he will sit on the deck with a cold beer in his hand and watch the sun set until dark.

ALS progresses at a different rate for everyone. Mark was diagnosed on April 17, 2020.

I planned our trip to Kelowna the year he was diagnosed, as he was still able to drive then. We then flew to Vancouver the following year, as he was not able to drive anymore, and as of last year, he’s mostly in bed with a BiPap and Trilogy. Every day has been a struggle since the diagnosis, but this is a reminder to try and always make the most of those beautiful days… Making it Possible.

In this picture, taken on April 7, 2023, we went to Fish Creek Park, with his new tilt manual wheelchair and Trilogy machine. I can’t say thank you enough for all the support from the AHS Home Care/ ACETS Program, Respiratory Outreach Program, ALS Clinic and The ALS Society of Alberta. With all their help, Mark is still able to enjoy some of the things he loves. The amount of time put into every assessment is truly appreciated. And the time our Coordinator from the Society spent checking on us through emails, telephone calls and texts to make sure we got the right equipment, give words of encouragement, or ears to listen sympathetically; Making it Possible to still have a great quality of life.

We are strong, but I know we’re all mentally struggling. I wouldn’t wish ALS on anyone, but just know that some of us are out here, thinking about all of you, and praying for you through this journey.

“When life gives you a hundred reasons to break down and cry, show life that you have a million reasons to smile and laugh.” Psalm 56:8

Cheers!

Grace