When you hear words like "ALS," it feels like the world stands still, the weight of the unknown pressing heavily. ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is a rapidly progressive disease that profoundly changes the lives of those affected; but here in Alberta, hope, compassion, and community are never far away.
The ALS Society of Alberta is the only charitable organization in the province solely dedicated to supporting Albertans living with and affected by ALS. They provide compassionate care, vital resources, and unwavering support. From emotional support groups to equipment that makes everyday living a little easier, their services meet clients wherever they are in their ALS journey.
The annual Alberta Walk Together for ALS has a huge impact for those living with or supporting someone living with ALS. It is also a major fundraising event for the Society.
The Power of Compassionate, Local Support
Living with ALS is a family affair. It doesn’t just impact the person diagnosed; it ripples out to spouses, children, friends, and caregivers.
Leslie Ring Adams, Executive Director of the ALS Society of Alberta, shares, “Our mission is simple but powerful: to help make every day the best it can be for Albertans living with and affected by ALS. We walk alongside our clients and their loved ones through every step of their journey.”
The Society’s services are comprehensive and critical. One of their flagship programs is the Equipment Loan Program, which provides individuals with specialized medical equipment free of charge.
“Most want to be at home with their children, pets, and loved ones,” explains Emily Pyle-Penley, Manager of Fundraising and Communications. “Our services are designed to make that possible.”
The Equipment Loan Program is truly unique. While other providers might take weeks to fulfill requests for basic aids, the ALS Society of Alberta responds quickly with more advanced tools, like stairlifts and hospital beds. These items are sanitized and loaned to families, then returned, inspected, and repurposed for the next individual. When time is of the essence, this kind of rapid, sustainable support can’t be overstated.
Beyond equipment, the Society also offers an initiative called COMPASS for ALS Caregivers. Recognizing the significant emotional and physical toll caregiving can take, this structured program provides caregivers with practical tools and resources, including units on self-care strategies.
“Caregivers often feel isolated and unsupported,” says Emily. “This program creates a safe space for them to talk about their experiences and gain valuable insights into caring for both their loved ones and themselves.”
Stories That Inspire: Hashem Melhem
For Alberta resident Hashem Melhem, the ALS Society of Alberta has been a lifeline. A globetrotting hospitality professional, Hashem envisioned his retirement filled with travel and time with his family. Instead, just before his planned retirement, he was diagnosed with ALS.
“The day I was diagnosed, the world around me blurred,” says Hashem. “Questions flooded my mind. What will happen to my wife? My kids? My life?”
But even amidst the heartbreak of diagnosis, Hashem found unwavering support.
“The ALS Society of Alberta was quick to respond. They came to our home, provided advice, and gave us the loaner equipment I needed to move around. They’ve been there through every stage.”
Hashem’s story is one of resilience and hope. Despite the challenges of ALS, he cherishes life’s milestones.
“I walked my daughter down the aisle. I watched my son vow to love his wife. This year, I’ll become a grandfather to two beautiful babies. Even in the face of ALS, life continues to offer beautiful gifts.”
His message to others shows the heart of the ALS community. “Life is short. At the end of the day, it’s about family, friends, and the people who give you hope when you lose it. That’s what the ALS Society of Alberta has been for me.”
Walking Together for ALS
One of the most powerful ways the ALS Society of Alberta builds community and inspires hope is through its annual signature event, Walk Together for ALS.
For many, these walks are the first time they meet others who truly understand what it means to live with ALS.
“Our Walk events are built on volunteer dedication and community spirit,” explains Emily. “People come together to share stories, exchange hugs, and find comfort in knowing that they’re not alone. This sense of belonging can be life-changing.”
The walks take place on the following days and at the following locations.
- Cold Lake - June 7 - Lakeland Lutheran Church
- Drayton Valley - June 14 - Lions West Valley Park
- Camrose - June 14 - Mirror Lake Park
- Edmonton - June 14 - Rundle Park
- Altario – date coming soon
- Red Deer - June 22 - Bower Ponds
- Wainwright - Sept 6 (subject to change)
- Lethbridge - Sept 6 - Henderson Lake Park
- Hinton - Sept 7 - Beaver Boardwalk
Even if ALS hasn’t touched your life personally, anyone can join the movement. Whether you walk, donate, or sponsor these events, every contribution strengthens the network of care and helps fund vital services and research.
Building a Future of Hope
The ALS Society of Alberta is also a champion for research. Through the Alberta ALS Research Network (AARN), Society is strengthening the province’s role in finding better treatments and, hopefully, a cure. Last year, $1.1 million was committed to provincial ALS research, with plans to significantly grow this investment.
Your actions, whether through the Walk, donation, or advocacy help fuel this essential work.
Leslie reminds us, “Every dollar raised in Alberta stays in Alberta to support our community. Together, we are building hope and support, close to home.”
Join and Show Your Support
ALS may be unpredictable and life-changing, but it’s no match for the resilience, kindness, and determination of Albertans. The ALS Society of Alberta embodies this spirit, offering hands-on care and creating spaces where everyone touched by this disease can connect and heal.
This year, consider joining Hashem and countless others at the Walk Together for ALS events. Take a step forward for love, for community, for hope. Every step makes a difference.
Hasem puts it best, saying, “Managing ALS is about more than just medical care; it takes a community. It’s the doctors who monitor every change, the friends who reach out just to remind me I’m not alone, and the small acts of kindness that carry me through my hardest days. Each person plays a role in building a network of support that sustains not just the body, but the spirit.
“I spent my life working toward a well-earned retirement, one I pictured filled with rest and reflection. This might not be the retirement I imagined, but it is the one I have, and I meet it with gratitude – that is, gratitude for my wife, my family, my friends, and the community walking this path with us.
“This year, I want you to walk for them. I want you to walk for everyone facing this disease. Please join us at Rundle Park on June 14, 2025, for Edmonton’s Walk Together for ALS, because none of us should have to face ALS alone.”
For more information on how to register or contribute, visit The ALS Society of Alberta.
Learn more online and follow on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.
