Hope Through Caring Gala

Thank you for making the 36th annual Hope Through Caring Gala a huge success! With over 450 guests attending in person and virtually, it was an evening full of warmth, laughter, and a few tears. Laura Freveletti, our Chief Executive Officer, remarked:

“This is an evening of hope. As we gather together, united in determination and purpose, I am full of hope about the opportunities that lie ahead of us. We can lead collaborations, advance research, and reach more people affected by ALS than ever before.”

You helped us raise nearly $700,000 toward care and support for people living with ALS, their caregivers and families, two of which (the Hernandezes and Keldanis) were the focus of our Gala video — as well as research into the causes, treatment, and cures for the disease.

Photos from the Gala are online, with other highlights including:

• A special message from Governor J.B. Pritzker on the legacy of the Foundation and importance of our mission.
• Sportswriter Dan Pompei and Bears legend Tom Thayer speaking on the Steve McMichael they knew as a teammate and a friend.
• Dr. Merit Cudkowicz being awarded the Harvey and Bonny Gaffen Advancements in ALS Award in recognition of her vital leadership in ALS clinical trials.
• Dr. Anne Lidsky receiving the Hope Through Caring Award for her over 40 years of dedicated service in support group facilitation.

We are still accepting donations toward the Gala. Since many companies match employee donations, you can double your impact by using our tool to see if your employer will match your gift.

Thank you again for your support of the ALS community! We're excited to see you at an event this summer like Lou Gehrig Day with the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox, or a NASCAR Watch Party hosted by race car driver Gordon Scully, and don't forget to mark your calendars for the Les Turner ALS Walk for Life on Saturday, Sept. 14.