February 2024 Foundation eNews

Ashley RosenbrockFoundation eNews, Home Page

Chicago Bears Make Big Move to Fight ALS

In a heartfelt tribute to the team’s newly inducted Hall of Famer, Steve McMichael, the Chicago Bears have pledged to make a $76,000 contribution to the Les Turner ALS Foundation. And you can join them.

Every donation made to Bears Care — the charitable arm of the Chicago Bears — will be added to the $76,000 pledge that they are making in honor of McMichael and his fight against ALS. In addition, every donation will come with the chance to send a message to McMichael, which will be personally delivered to him.

Across 13 seasons, 191 games, and a Hall of Fame career, McMichael left an indelible mark on Chicago and football history. We’re proud to be serving his family and the ALS community as we continue our mission to provide hope, care, and strength in the face of this devastating disease. Join the campaign by clicking the link below to make your donation and send a message that will be delivered to Steve.

Hope Through Caring Award: Dr. Anne Lidsky

At this year’s Hope Through Caring Gala, we’re delighted to honor Dr. Anne Lidsky, a beacon of compassion and resilience in the ALS community. Over four decades, Anne has extended her hand and heart to countless families navigating the tumultuous journey of ALS. From her teenage years, stepping into the role of primary caregiver for her mother diagnosed with ALS, to her invaluable contributions as a support group facilitator with the Les Turner ALS Foundation, Anne’s life story is a testament to turning personal tragedy into a lifeline for others.

Her efforts have not only provided a platform for caregivers to share and express their emotions but have also introduced innovative initiatives like the ethical will, helping those with ALS leave lasting memories for their loved ones. Anne’s approach transcends traditional support; she embodies the role of a guide, a confidante, and a friend, touching lives with her dedication and heartfelt empathy.

On Saturday, April 13, we’ll honor Anne Lidsky and other exceptional people from the ALS community at the Hope Through Caring Gala. Join us and celebrate an extraordinary individual whose life’s work has brought hope, understanding, and care to so many.

ALS & Activities of Daily Living — Now in Spanish

Our Activities of Daily Living Guide is now available for both English and Spanish speakers. This guide is designed to empower individuals with ALS, their caregivers, and families with knowledge and practical advice for navigating daily activities.

Understanding how ALS can impact routine tasks, we aim to equip you with the tools and insights gained from a vast community experience. Whether it’s personal care, mobility, or communication, our guide offers adaptive strategies for maintaining independence and quality of life. Lean on your ALS Care Team and the collective wisdom of those who’ve walked this path for support today and in the future.

Read the guide 

Nuestra guía ELA y Actividades de la Vida Diaria ahora disponible tanto en inglés como en español. Esta guía está diseñada para empoderar a las personas con ELA, sus cuidadores y familias con conocimientos y consejos prácticos para navegar las actividades diarias.

Entendiendo cómo la ELA puede impactar las tareas rutinarias, nuestro objetivo es proporcionarle las herramientas y percepciones obtenidas de la vasta experiencia comunitaria. Ya sea para el cuidado personal, la movilidad o la comunicación, nuestra guía ofrece estrategias adaptativas para mantener la independencia y la calidad de vida. Apóyese en su Equipo de Cuidado de ELA y en la sabiduría colectiva de aquellos que han recorrido este camino para obtener apoyo hoy y en el futuro.

Lee la guía

Advocating for the ALS Better Care Act in D.C.

Us Capitol

This week, Lauren Webb, Chief Advocacy Officer for the Les Turner ALS Foundation, has been working on Capitol Hill. Her mission? To underline the critical importance of the ALS Better Care Act for congressional staffers and members of Congress.

The ALS Better Care Act would deliver much-needed support to multidisciplinary ALS clinics like the Lois Insolia ALS Clinic. It would dramatically reduce wait times, alleviate stress on care teams, and enable families to focus on health and well-being during their most challenging times.

“We’re simply asking that Medicare pay for the care that’s being delivered and that it be reimbursed in the right way. We’re hopeful that this will lead to innovation in care and more access,” said Webb.

The Les Turner ALS Foundation stands in strong support with this bill. Add your voice to the call for passing this legislation.

 

Your Passport to Quality Care

The My ALS Communication Passport to Quality Care is designed to convey personal preferences about daily care and quality of life for people living with ALS. This comprehensive, customizable document allows individuals to compile essential personal and medical information, ensuring that caregivers, whether family, professionals, or part of a medical team, understand their unique needs and preferences.

The passport’s convenience lies in its ability to centralize critical information, making it easier for caregivers to provide personalized care efficiently, especially during transitions between care settings or when introducing new caregivers to a person’s routine.