Our friend Danny Getzlaf is at it again, with another Ice Bucket Challenge this holiday season! The famous fundraiser is back, with a twist: no warm weather to help you recover from a freezing ice dump. Every splash and every donation mean the world to us, and many of our families.
Learn more here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/danny-getzlaf-ice-bucket-christmas/
Our generous friends Mikael and Frida Backlund are back for this years’ Giving Tuesday, reminding us that today is the perfect time to support your favourite causes.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us a an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
As a part of our celebration of Giving Tuesday 2021, here's a powerful client story from our very own Paul Dunphy! Paul recounts his diagnosis, and how the ALS Society of Alberta and their Equipment Loan Program helped him through this challenging time.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us a an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
This year for #GivingTuesday we are featuring stories about our clients truly "Making Possibilities" with the help of our Equipment Loan Program.
If you'd like to donate or learn more about the campaign you can visit: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/
Here is our story of the day. Thank you for sharing with us Marlene!
My name is Marlene and I became the caregiver for my friend, Rory, who was sadly diagnosed with ALS in March 2020. Rory was devastated by this news, didn’t want to believe it at first, couldn’t believe it and it was hard to digest.
At first Rory’s symptoms were mild but as his condition seemed to get worse too quickly. We realized that he would not be able to use the stairs to where he was staying in the basement.
The ALS Society quickly arranged for stair lifts to be installed in the house so that Rory could use them to go up/down and be on the main floor. Here he was able to use his walker, also supplied very kindly by the ALS Society to move around the house.
Rory’s condition kept getting worse and the ALS Society were again helpful in providing a smaller stair lift from the garage into the house as there were 3 stairs from the garage into the house. So that helped. As Rory’s condition worsened we realized that he would need a special bed so that he would be able to turn in it without falling out. Again, the ALS Society provided this for Rory which helped as it lifted up for him to reach the ground without falling and then went down so that he could sleep relatively comfortably. It had side rails to prevent him from falling out.
Rory’s condition kept getting worse as the months progressed and we then realized that we needed assistance with his personal grooming. The ALS Society arranged for him to get personal care aides to come to the house for his personal grooming, washing him, helping him with showers, shaving, brushing his teeth, etc. This was extremely helpful as I (Marlene) being 73 years old was not able to do all of these things for Rory.
By August, 2020, Rory was almost unable to walk and lost the muscle in his legs. This presented another problem as he was barely able to get up from each stair lift and move to the next without falling. We all realized that Rory’s situation was progressing all too fast.
The ALS Society then arranged for a beautiful uplift recliner to be provided so that Rory could now sit in this recliner and was able to bring up the recliner to the point where I could help him stand up and use his walker. This was really very helpful as I would not have been able to lift Rory out of any chair. I then started to feed Rory in his recliner as he was not able to get to the dining room table.
By November 2020, Rory had to be moved to an assisted-living (and supportive-living) home, as the ALS was progressing too fast and I was not able to provide him with the proper care he needed at home.
In November 2020, the ALS Society did the most wonderful thing for Rory; they provided him with an Electric Wheelchair!! Unbelievable. This was very, very useful as he was not able to get around using his walker any longer.
Soon, Rory’s hands became unusable as the ALS progressed and his muscles were too weak. So the electric wheelchair became a very important asset for him. He still had to be lifted in/out of the electric wheelchair but this was done by the staff at the home. Because of his ability to use the electric wheelchair, Rory was able to access the Access Calgary Transit services and was able to go out into the beautiful garden for visits with family and friends.
As a gesture for my birthday last August (2020) I did a fundraiser for the ALS Society on my Facebook page and was able to raise $250.00 which I hoped was helpful. I wish I could have raised more.
More recently, this summer (2021) Rory has been able to come home for visits on the nice summer days we have been blessed with. He was able to see his beloved cat, spend time with Marlene and his neighbours, who have been in constant touch with him throughout his stay at the home. Many have even visited Rory when they could and some even visit him, which he enjoys.
I have to say that I was absolutely surprised and so very thankful for all the kindness, support and equipment that Rory received from the ALS Society. Without their help I am not sure what we would have done, as we could never afford any of the equipment provided which helped make his life a little easier and bearable.
To date, the ALS Society continues to help Rory with equipment, and support. We are forever in their debt and hope that they are able to continue their good work which is so necessary for anyone who is going through ALS. We can’t thank you enough.
God Blessing be with you all
Marlene Darby
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
Here’s everything you need to know about our plans for Giving Tuesday 2021, an what you can do to help us make each day the best day for those living with or affected by ALS in Alberta.
This year for #GivingTuesday we are featuring stories about our clients truly "Making Possibilities" with the help of our Equipment Loan Program.
If you'd like to donate or learn more about the campaign you can visit: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/
Here is our story of the day. Thank you for sharing with us Robert!
"When I was a schoolteacher, I used to be able to use my loud voice to give physical education instructions to students across the gymnasium, in French, English and Mandarin.
Unfortunately, when I contracted a genetic form of ALS, my voice became faint and hoarse. It became totally impossible to discuss with my 93 year old dad who is hard of hearing.
When the ALS Society provided me with a voice amplifier, I not only became able to resume phone discussions with my dad, but I have also been able to sustain longer conversations with friends. The voice amplifier has contributed to keep me connected with the word around me."
Warm regards,
Robert
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
"Because of the Alberta ALS Society and because of the kindness of people who have donated to it, Dale and I were able to make the very most of the time we had together. We were loaned tens of thousands of dollars worth of equipment which gave my husband the ability to function the best way possible during the various stages of his journey with ALS. I am so incredibly thankful for the generosity that made it possible for him to move, communicate, eat and breathe without missing out on life and without breaking the bank. Because of this support, he was able to enjoy his time with friends as well as take several trips with our family, giving him so much pleasure and leaving us with all kinds of very precious memories. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to all those who made it possible and to those who continue to make it possible for others."
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us a an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
"Here is a picture of me on my little red scooter on my way to visit friends and neighbours in our adult community. But the best of all of the equipment I have received from the ALS society is my lift. All the houses are bungalows out there are four steps from the ground level to get into the house. The first time Leslie came for an in-person visit back in early 2019 she suggested a lift to get into the house. At that time I was still quite capable of going up and down stairs, but decided to listen to Leslie and she ordered the lift to come to the house via Adapt Mobility. This lift means so much to me now as I can stay in my house and not have to move to an apartment building."
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
This year for Giving Tuesday we wanted to share stories about "Making Possibilities". One of the ways many of our families are able to continue to make possibilities happen is through our Equipment Loan Program.
Living With ALS - Pam’s Story – A Digital Story by Mike Lang
Pam Keenan, new ALS Society of Alberta Board Member, shares the story of her husband Chad’s ALS journey all through the eyes of our talented friend, Mike Lang.
”Mike has worked with hundreds of patients, family members and health care providers, from across all injury and illness groups, to help them create short 3 min Digital Stories of their experiences.”
Please take a moment to watch to Pam’s Story. Her family’s raw and honest story is one that will move you in so many ways. Thank you, Pam, for sharing it.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
Once again our friends Mikael & Frida Backlund continue to give back to our wonderful families. The Backlund's kindly treated Colleen Olson & her husband Ritchie to some of the best seats in the house at the most recent Calgary Flames home game!
It's gestures and supports like these that we want to share this year for our Giving Tuesday campaign: Making Possibilities.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful photo with us Colleen! We hope we are able to continue to create memories like these for our families.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
For this Giving Tuesday story, our 2021 Edmonton Walk Ambassador Belle DeZutter shines a light on how her diagnosis progressed, and how the Equipment Loan Program has allowed her to continue on her adventures. Edited by our talented friend Mike Lang, this short video shows how Making Possibilities keeps our families happy and healthy.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
As we approach the Season Of Giving this year, we wanted to share a few stories with you. Each story shows just how much one gesture, act, or even a piece of equipment can really make a difference to a family living with ALS.
Near the end of October, John and his family were able to take in the action packed Flames VS. Flyers hockey game, this is something that meant the absolute world to them and wouldn’t have been possible in other circumstances. John, Yvonne, Yvette & Candice were able to sit together as a family thanks to the kind gesture of our good friends and advocates Mikael and Frida Backlund and our tremendous equipment loan program.
We hope John and his family can cherish these memories for a lifetime. We only hope we can continue to “Make Possibilities” for all of our families.
If you'd like to learn more about our campaign, check out: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-society-of-alberta/campaign/giving-tuesday-2021/?fbclid=IwAR0z02K94UPJCEuVm0ndDjEmBnhtAKXCTsLdNcM-6pLmTuSl4iPVrLCNJQA
Have you or a loved one of yours benefitted from the Equipment Loan Program? Would you like to share your experience? Please send us an email at alscommunications@alsab.ca
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!
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.”
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.”
With the lifting of restrictions in Alberta over the summer, we were blessed to have a number of community events held as fundraisers for the Society.
Streetside Developments Donation
Debbie Ironside, a long-time employee of Streetside Developments, has been personally touched by ALS. Her friend Maryann Burhof passed away in 2020 from the disease, leaving behind her husband Mike and son Cody, who were supported by the Society during Maryann’s illness. As such, when parent company Qualico was conducting its Acts of Kindness Campaign that provides support to charities with $1000 donations, she advocated for the ALS Society of Alberta. We were so pleased to welcome Debbie, Mike and Cody at the office earlier this summer, and are so very grateful for the $1000 donation. Thank you Debbie for your compassion and for thinking of us.
Howard Smith Memorial Team Roping Competition
The 20th annual Howard Smith Memorial Team Roping event was held on August 22nd, and we were so happy to attend. The Smith family has held this event since 2002, and with the help of the grandchildren and great grandchildren, the event will continue Howard’s legacy. As last year's roping was sadly cancelled due to Covid, they made sure this year was one of their biggest events. Over 70 ropers competed for the coveted prizes, and over $6500 was raised! It is a wonderful family event, well supported by the community.
A big thank you to the Smith family for your amazing support of families affected by ALS in Alberta for the past 20 years.
Crash-It Golf Tournament
The Committee of the Crash-it Golf Tournament came by to present us with a cheque from their event in late August, and also have a quick tour of our equipment facility. Their tournament welcomed 144 golfers and raised $17,500 for the ALS Society of Alberta, an unbelievable show of generosity. This amazing group of volunteers come together every year to host a golf tournament for their associates and raise funds for charities. This year they chose the ALS Society of Alberta to honour of one of their committee members personally touched by ALS.
They truly represent the amazing community in Calgary that gives so much. Thank you so very much to the committee and all participants - this makes a huge impact on all those living with ALS in Alberta.
Committee
Emile Fremont - Lordco Auto Parts
Phil Jennings - Uniparts OEM
Scott Lavery - CSN Collision Centres
Brady Chattington - CSN Image Auto Body
Mark Sturby - Superior Paint and Body
James Grant - Carter Cadillac
Belt Buckle Sponsor - Crooked Horn Canadian Junior Rodeo Finals
We were so proud to be represented by Todd Bertamini at the Crooked Horn Canadian Junior Rodeo Finals this summer! He presented the Buckle to the Season Leader for Junior Barrels to Braidy Meston, on behalf of the ALS Society of Alberta. Thank you Todd for your involvement in allowing us to sponsor this buckle, and congratulations Braidy!
It’s back!!
Our 50/50 in June was so successful that we are holding another one on September 30th! Last round sold out in a matter of a week, with the winner taking home the maximum cash prize of $10,000. We expect the same this time so get your tickets early for the chance to win! Funds raised support Albertans living with ALS and their families. Click here and share with your friends and family.
Are you a family caregiver living in Alberta? Do you care for someone living with you, in their own community home, in a lodge, supportive living, or long-term care Please help us understand the work that family caregivers do and the impact of COVID-19 on your wellbeing by completing this survey? It will be open until August 31, 2021.
Survey: COVID-19 Affected Alberta Family Caregivers. What is happening now in 2021? [Pro00097996].
Dr Jasneet Parmar from the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Alberta and her research team would like to understand:
1. The impacts of the COVID19 on Alberta family caregivers and
2. What supports family caregivers need to help them care and maintain their own wellbeing as we move forward beyond the COVID-19 pandemic [Pro00097996].
The survey will take about 20 minutes of your time https://redcap.link/caregiver2021
On the last day of ALS Awareness month, we are grateful to have Adam Thom, a filmmaker, tell his family’s ALS story.
This honest and raw video shares his feelings and experience of losing his father to ALS at a young age.
Thank you Adam, for sharing this with all of us.
My name is Trevor Bradshaw and I am proud to be called the Ambassador for the Red Deer Walk for ALS for 2021.
I was diagnosed with ALS in July 2019, but looking back, the symptoms presented themselves much earlier. I was riding my beloved Triumph motorcycle when a deer hit me. My left leg became numb. Thinking it was a result of the accident and hard work my back had endured over the years, we thought it was a pinched nerve. Then my energy level and physical strength became very weak. I couldn’t accomplish what I used o during a work day. It took one more year before my diagnosis through the ALS Clinic in Calgary. I was 62 years old.
I was a heavy duty mechanic with Finning for 14 years then started a construction company and gravel pit. The work was very physical but I enjoyed it immensely. Customers became lifelong friends. After the diagnosis, I began selling off equipment and focused on spending time with my family and friends.
Before COVID, I got to travel to Arizona, doing a motorcycle trip with friends. Took my family to Nova Scotia and an incredible trip to Iceland. Exploring Banff, Jasper and Cypress Hills has also allowed family time. But just enjoying coffee or happy hour with friends and family is equally important to me.
I have met this illness with a sense of humour, courage and determination. Having the support of the ALS Society and Clinic has been exceptional. You only have to mention an issue, and it is quickly resolved. They have installed lifts in our home and various medical equipment which will allow me to stay in our home longer.
With this support, I have been able to spend my energy on living life to the fullest and what means the most to me. Please support this worthwhile cause to help end ALS.
My ALS limb onset diagnosis came in June 2019. Symptoms started in the early spring of 2018. During my regular gym exercising my weightlifting protocol was subtly becoming more difficult, particularly exercises involving my legs. In the early summer of 2018 while speed walking on the gym track, suddenly my right foot was not working properly. Continuing that exercise in the normal fashion was not possible. At the time I blamed it on my new shoes.
During the course of 2018 balance issues became a problem and my right leg was not allowing me to walk normally. It became difficult using stairs and to stand up without leaning against a wall or using handrails.
We lived in a two storey house and decided to move to a bungalow. The move was made in September 2019.
As things progressed my family doctor did not have a diagnosis. She referred me to a neurologist. In January 2019 the neurologist performed nerve conduction tests, the results of which were normal. She arranged for an MRI which was done in May 2019. By this time my ability to walk needed a cane. More testing was done and then referral to the Kaye Clinic was made. My appointment was in June 2019. More nerve conduction testing was done and the result was the diagnosis of ALS. This was the beginning of my relationship with the neurologist and the Kaye Clinic. It was also at this point information about the ALS society was given to me. My registration with the society happened in July.
My wife and I have six grandchildren, two in Fort McMurray, two in Grande Prairie, and two in Saskatoon. It really goes without saying what our passion is, but we love our grandchildren. In order to see our grandchildren on a regular basis we traveled a lot, but that is what we liked to do. Also another passion of ours was visiting the Temple Garden Spa in Moose Jaw, Sask every year, twice a year .
My other passion was my work. My love of airplanes had me working at the airport of a diamond mine in the NWT. My primary role was directing aircraft landing at and taking off from the airport. Sometimes it could get busy because getting in and out the mine could only be done by air. There are no roads.
My diagnosis resulted in my last tour of duty at the mine in 2019. Our last visits to see our grandchildren, and visit to the Spa, were in the early winter of 2020. By this time climbing stairs and long drives were a challenge because of a lack of energy and poor mobility. Now our grandchildren visit us, unfortunately hampered by Covid, but they do the travelling now.
My new passion is playing scrabble on facebook with my mom, my sisters, my brother, sister-in-law, and other friends. Another passion is Facetime with my grandchildren when they are not visiting.
My wife has become my primary caregiver. Her role has become progressively more work. My oldest son initially moved to Edmonton to provide assistance. My three other sons are very supportive and as time has gone on they visit regularly to help out. My brother built a wheel chair ramp in my garage which now allows me to get out of the house because using stairs is not a possibility any more.
Support from the ALS Society has been phenomenal. The support provided has been beyond my expectations. They are always willing to discuss my issues and always ready to help resolve my issues. They have provided every piece of equipment needed to help me live my best. Wheelchair is my exclusive method of mobility now. The ALS society arranged for ceiling lift tracks installed in my living room, bathroom, and bedroom in order to get in and out of the wheelchair.
Another important thing they do is contact me regularly to see how I’m doing and offer more help if it’s needed. It has been outstanding service provided by outstanding and caring people. Something very special about them is the coordination of `coffee group’ meetings on zoom. This has allowed me to make contact with other people with the same condition. This is a positive aspect for my life and my deepest and sincerest thanks go out to the society.
Support also comes from AHS, AADL, and the Kaye Clinic. In early 2020 breathing while lying on my back was a challenge. The clinic arranged for me to get a BiPAP. The Kaye Clinic also stays in contact with me and offer any help if needed.
My own research into ALS led me to join two facebook groups, Whole body healing for ALS and ALS Natural Healing (Holistic) and an international online organization, HealingALS.org. This research also led me to develop a treatment plan. This plan includes a supplement protocol involving numerous supplements, a program involving acupuncture, physiotherapy, massage therapy, iv therapy, removing mercury fillings from my teeth and removing teeth that had root canals.
There is no way of knowing for sure if any of the plan has helped but it worth trying at least until the medical community, with their now exhaustive research around the world, can find a cure. Riluzole was part of my treatment plan for a year but uncomfortable side effects forced me to stop.
At the beginning of my diagnosis I was involved in a drug trial. The drug was pimozide.
My plan for the future is to never give up! My attitude is positive and I surround myself with positive people. Stress reduction is very important as well as elimination of anger.
I recently received this quote from a friend of mine. It is so appropriate.
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” – Thomas Edison
Living With ALS - Pam’s Story – A Digital Story by Mike Lang
Pam Keenan, new ALS Society of Alberta Board Member, shares the story of her husband Chad’s ALS journey all through the eyes of our talented friend, Mike Lang.
”Mike has worked with hundreds of patients, family members and health care providers, from across all injury and illness groups, to help them create short 3 min Digital Stories of their experiences.”
Please take a moment to watch to Pam’s Story. Her family’s raw and honest story is one that will move you in so many ways. Thank you, Pam, for sharing it.
#MIP #MakingItPossible
