Foundation News
The first ALS Walk for Life team to register is…
We are so excited to be back at Soldier Field for the ALS Walk for Life on Saturday, Sept 23! Congratulations to Hursh Power for being the first team to sign up for this year’s Walk.
Rebecca Hursh created this team in memory of her husband Rod, who was diagnosed with bulbar onset ALS in 2021 and passed away in May 2022.
“I was his only caretaker, which was the biggest honor of my life, as it allowed me to spend every moment, both good and bad, holding his hand through his last chapter.” says Rebecca. “He was an amazing soul who is deeply missed and forever in our hearts.”
Rebecca plans to walk with her children, Brittany and Bret, as well as cousins and family friends. They’re on track to raise over $3,000 for ALS care and research.
Home modifications to ease mobility and care
Does the arrival of spring weather have you thinking about home modifications? Before you talk to contractors, check in with your ALS care team.
Whether adding a ramp, remodeling or moving, planning with short and long-term needs in mind is essential, especially as adding unnecessary or poorly designed elements can add costs to a budget. Your ALS care team can provide you with resources and help brainstorm cost-effective ways to modify your home.
Start with our ALS & Home Modifications guide. With insights about doors and hallways, bathrooms, lifts and more, this guide is designed to help people living with ALS and their families think about features that will meet their needs today, tomorrow and beyond.
Volunteers make a difference
Looking for an idea to join the spirit of ALS Awareness Month? Consider committing to volunteer at an upcoming Foundation event or with one of our shared interest groups — and then ask a friend to join you.
Tracy Balke has helped organize a group to work at the water stop at the ALS Walk for Life every fall.
“Volunteering with the Les Turner ALS Foundation is something I look forward to,” says Tracy. “Having lost a family member to ALS, I know the services and support needed and will continue to help those making an impactful difference for those with ALS and their families. When I see the joy this event brings to families by providing a gathering space, entertainment and inspiration, it’s impossible not to feel hopeful.”
If you are interested in making a difference like Tracy, check out our volunteer opportunities and then reach out to learn more about how you can get involved. You’re guaranteed a rewarding experience.
Thursday: ALS and Exercise
Do you have questions about whether it is OK to exercise with ALS and what kind of exercise is most beneficial?
Please join us on Thursday, April 20 from 12-1 p.m. CST for this month’s ALS Learning Series webinar, “ALS & Exercise.” Hannah Redd PT, DPT, NCS, at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, will provide insight into the benefits of exercise among people living with ALS, give examples of appropriate exercises to do at home and discuss signs of overworking. People living with ALS as well as their care teams will receive practical information on home exercise programs and outpatient therapy. A Q&A will follow the presentation.
The Les Turner ALS Foundation is proud to offer this webinar at no cost to the ALS community. Thank you to the Gilbert and Jacqueline Fern Foundation and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America for sponsoring this webinar.
Lace ’em up for the Lew Blond 5K Run/Walk
Just one month to go! Whether you are an avid runner or just looking to celebrate the summer, we’d love to see you at the Lew Blond Memorial 5K Run/Walk on May 20 in Northbrook, IL. This event honors former Northbrook/Glenview School District 30 teacher Lew Blond, who passed away from ALS in 2000.
There are tons of activities for all age levels including the Little Lew 50-yard dash for children up to 6 years old.
During registration, if you select ‘Les Turner ALS Foundation’ in the “How did you hear about the Lew Blond Run?” drop-down, the full proceeds from your registration will be donated to the Foundation. With our own Strike Out ALS 5K on hiatus for 2023, the Lew Blond 5K is a great chance for people of all ability levels to get some exercise, enjoy the sun and support ALS care and research.
Sign up today and we’ll see you on May 20!
