April 2026 Foundation eNews - Les Turner ALS Foundation

Join us this Saturday for the Hope Through Caring Gala

The 38th annual Hope Through Caring Gala arrives this Saturday, April 11, at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel.

We are the leader in comprehensive ALS care in Chicagoland, providing individualized support every step of the way. This prestigious evening features emcee Paul Lisnek and celebrates our 2026 honorees. Dr. John M. Coleman III will receive the Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS Award for his expertise and dedication to care at our Lois Insolia ALS Clinic. We’ll also honor Brian and Lori Andre with the Hope Through Caring Award for their decade of fierce advocacy and commitment to our community.

Please join us at 6:00 PM in your favorite touch of blue. Early registration is closed but tickets may be purchased on site. Together, we’re navigating the journey toward a world free of ALS.

Join us Thursday, April 23 at 12 p.m. CT for our upcoming ALS Learning Series webinar, Informed Decision-Making in ALS. This open discussion focuses on the medical and emotional considerations of tracheostomy and invasive mechanical ventilation.

Our panel includes Danielle Burks, LCPC, a former caregiver, alongside Matt Creen and Melissa Diaz-Viera, LCSW, who both provide perspectives as people living with ALS. Whether you are personally considering these options or supporting a loved one, this session offers valuable insights to confidently navigate the disease. As a leader in comprehensive ALS care, we provide this resource at no cost to our community.

We thank our sponsors, the Gilbert and Jacqueline Fern Foundation and Tanabe Pharma America, for their support. Please register today for this vital, expert-led conversation.

ICYMI: Searching for the cause of ALS, researchers look to metabolism within cells

In case you missed it, our latest research update explores the complex mystery of TDP-43 protein dysfunction at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine.

Scientists have long known this protein aggregation leads to neurodegeneration for the majority of people living with ALS. Supported by Foundation seed grants, researchers are currently investigating whether mitochondrial metabolic defects trigger this protein defect.

While initial findings suggest metabolic dysfunction may not be the primary driver, this rigorous research remains essential for understanding the disease’s progression. We remain committed to funding the brightest minds as they explore every possible avenue toward life-enhancing treatments and a cure.

Read the full article today to see how our research is driving global advancements.

Guide Spotlight: ALS & Genetics

All people living with ALS, regardless of clinical presentation or family history, should have the option of genetic counseling and testing.

Our guide walks you through how a genetic counselor—a healthcare provider who specializes in how genes affect health—can support you before, during, and after the testing process. This guide is a powerful tool for understanding your diagnosis, accessing clinical trials, or exploring gene-targeted therapies like Qalsody.

Additionally, our interactive My ALS Decision Tool™ is available to help you weigh the benefits and emotional considerations at your own pace. Whether you seek answers about family risk or more effective symptom management, we provide constant reassurance throughout your journey.

Read the ALS & Genetics guide here, available in both English and Spanish.

Your Voice, Our Future: Help Shape Our Strategic Plan

As we begin developing our next strategic plan, we are seeking input to help guide the future of ALS care, research, and support.

Your perspective informs our priorities for the next three years, ensuring we continue providing the most comprehensive care in Chicagoland. We believe progress is achieved by working together, and your voice helps us strengthen our impact for people living with ALS and their loved ones.

Please complete our brief 10–12 minute survey by Friday, April 24. Your input is paramount in helping us reach our vision of a world free of ALS.

Take the survey by clicking this link.

We invite you to share a tribute—whether a story, memory, or photo— to our Celebration of Life memorial wall, keeping the legacy of your loved one alive and reminding others they are never forgotten.

Support ALS Care and Research

The Les Turner ALS Foundation exists to care for those affected by the disease, answer their questions, support them and their loved ones, and provide hope through scientific research at the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine.

Please make a gift so we can continue to deliver that care and support. Together, we will create a world free of ALS.