Marching On: Remembering Richie at the ALS Walk for Life
In memory of his beloved father Richie, Matthew D’Ambrosia and Team Richie have been involved in the ALS Walk for Life for over a decade. After Richie’s diagnosis in 2013, the Foundation offered much-needed support and information, helping Matthew’s family navigate the complexities of caregiving.
The family’s dedication to raising awareness and funds for ALS research led them to participate in numerous ALS Walks for Life. Matthew fondly recalls the March of Faces, where Richie’s face adorned the banner, a poignant moment helping his young children honor the memory of their grandfather.
For me and my brothers, the event has become an opportunity to gather our families and build connections between the kids and their late grandfather,” says Matt. Hailing from Bronzeville, with a deep-rooted passion for the White Sox, Team Richie’s commitment reflects their unwavering spirit and love for their community.
ICYMI: Julie Stowell, from the heart
Julie Stowell, RN, has been a guiding light and a source of immeasurable comfort for those battling ALS at the Les Turner ALS Foundation. After nine years of devoted service, she retired in July, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion.
Known for her sparkly silver-and-blue tutu and contagious enthusiasm at the ALS Walk for Life, Julie’s true magic lies in her ability to connect deeply with those she serves. Through sincere empathy and kindness, she has been a constant pillar of support for patients and their families.
Julie’s journey to nursing was a second career, but her calling to care for ALS patients was deeply personal. Her father’s battle with ALS inspired her to devote her skills to those with complex needs, providing solace to their final moments.
Her impact on the ALS community is evident in the words of grateful patients like David Cozzolino and Matt Creen, who describe her as a lifeline during challenging times. Julie’s profound impact has earned her a place in the hearts of those she cared for, making her a cherished part of their families.
Don’t Miss the Deadline for March of Faces
Honoring the courageous individuals who have battled ALS, the March of Faces banner will be proudly displayed at the upcoming ALS Walk for Life, showcasing the legacy of those who fought bravely from 2003 to the present.
Submit your loved one’s name and photo to be included in this meaningful display, fostering global awareness with the International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations. Participation is entirely free, but donations to support our mission of a world without ALS are greatly appreciated.
“Many caregivers feel like they are failing their loved one by not doing enough each day, and that is normal,” one caregiver told us. “Everyone has different capabilities. Once you accept your limitations and realize you are doing the best you can, you will be able to focus on more important things.”
Explore home health, respite, and hospice care options for respite. Don’t hesitate to seek help from the Les Turner ALS Foundation’s Caregivers Only group—a supportive space to share experiences and gather strength.
In this Learning Series webinar, Prof. Samar Aoun will share key findings and advice on enabling social networks to support people living with ALS/MND, making palliative care more widely accessible. A particular focus will be on bereavement support and family caregiver support.Prof. Aoun is renowned for her expertise in public health palliative care and compassionate communities research, currently serving as Chair of MND Australia, MND Association of Western Australia, and working as the Perron Institute Research Chair in Palliative Care at The University of Western Australia.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights. Register now for the webinar and join us in advancing support and care for the ALS community.
