My daughter was just 3 years and 8 months old when I was diagnosed with ALS. Back then she was innocent to the fact as my mobility issues were not overly visibly obvious. As time went on, due to her curious nature, she started realizing that something was wrong with me. We decided that we need to start telling her about my condition and the eventuality that it entails.

In hindsight, I think our approach was somewhat wrong or too blunt for her fragile age to handle. She developed anxiety and fears about losing someone and death. It was really difficult during that time because of the pandemic. Resources were very limited and we were both stuck at home as her school was closed. When the restrictions eased, we were approached by our ALS Society of Alberta client services coordinator about one of their programs called Support for Champions. We immediately thought that it was really a great opportunity. We had to choose activities that Maia might be interested in.

We had given her a small piano for her 5th birthday and enrolled her for a piano lesson. She was really doing great, so we decided to get her a real piano as an early gift for her 8th birthday. She is also taking dance classes and swimming lessons now. She is really doing great and has overcome all of the negative thoughts she had before. She has really come to terms with what's going on with me and she is also my little caregiver.

I am really grateful for the ALS Society of Alberta. They are not only helping people with ALS but they also have the Support for Champions program for the children of those affected by ALS. I would also like to thank my wife for all that she does for us. Working full time, she takes care of the house and me. And still she manages to bring Maia to her piano and dance classes twice a week, and swimming lessons once every two weeks.