e-Newsletter – March 2024

Greetings and Warmest Welcome to Our March E-Newsletter!

Your Dedicated Gateway to Our Community.

As we step into the vibrant rhythms of spring, we’re thrilled to continue this journey with you, delivering the latest happenings, insights, and inspirations directly to your inbox.

We’re committed to ensuring each communication serves a purpose, offering concise and relevant information that empowers you to stay connected without overwhelming your inbox.

In the coming months, watch for more details on our June signature fundraising events – from the heartwarming Move to Cure ALS community campaigns to the exhilarating PGA of BC Golfathon for ALS at participating golf courses. These moments are more than just milestones; they’re opportunities for us to unite, amplify our impact, and champion the cause that unites us all.

Thank you for joining us on this digital journey. Together, let’s continue to spark change, inspire hope, and move towards a world free of ALS and PLS.

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Thank You for Helping Name Our e-Newsletter!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in our “Help Us Name Our e-Newsletter” initiative last month. Your enthusiasm, creativity, and engagement have made this process remarkable – thank you!

Poll Results:

After careful consideration and tallying up the votes, we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve chosen a name for our monthly e-newsletter. Without further ado, we proudly present: ALS BC HopeLink!

This name perfectly captures our mission’s essence and reflects our community’s vibrant spirit. It’s a testament to the collaborative effort and collective wisdom of our supporters like you. We couldn’t have achieved this milestone without your valuable input and support. Your contributions have not only shaped the identity of our e-newsletter but have also strengthened the bond within our ALS BC family.

As we move forward with our newly named e-newsletter, we’re excited to continue delivering inspiring updates, engaging content, and meaningful connections with you all.

  • ALS BC HopeLink – 35.9%
  • Others – 25.7%
  • ALS BC Connected – 25.6%
  • ALS BC Cares – 12.8%

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ALS Canadian Alliance Virtual ALS Patient/Caregiver Information Forum

Are you looking for a platform to get your questions answered by experts?

We have some great news for you! ALS Canadian Alliance is hosting a live forum and Q&A session through Zoom open to anyone from anywhere in the world. There is no fee to attend! We know your time is valuable, so register and secure your spot today.

Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024
Time: 10 AM – 12 PM (PDT)
Location: Zoom

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Society Updates:

ALS BC 2023 Annual Report

The report offers a thorough insight into the society’s endeavours and accomplishments throughout the year. Delve into the report to explore messages from key figures expressing gratitude and highlighting progress across various programs and initiatives. The Treasurer’s Report underscores responsible financial stewardship, showcasing successful fundraisers that substantially contribute to patient services and research. Moreover, learn about the invaluable support from donors and sponsors who have generously backed ALS BC’s mission. We urge you to review the complete report for a more detailed understanding of our impactful work.

Move to Cure ALS New Partnerships

We are thrilled to announce that Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Canada, Inc., will join our long-time Top Level Sponsor, Y.P. Heung Foundation, as our Platinum Level Sponsor of the 2024 Move to Cure ALS event, the Society’s annual signature fundraiser. We are deeply grateful for our sponsor’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of people affected by neurodegenerative diseases. With their generous support, we can create more meaningful moments and improve the quality of life for individuals with ALS or PLS.

PGA of BC Golfathon for ALS

In June, the picturesque golf courses of British Columbia come alive with the spirit of giving during the PGA of BC Golfathon for ALS. Golfers unite in a noble cause, dedicating their skills and endurance to raise funds and awareness for ALS support. From the break of dawn to the peaceful sunset, they swing their clubs with purpose, standing in solidarity with those affected by ALS, their families, and tireless caregivers.

Fueling this heartfelt endeavour is the PGA of BC, a community of passionate and highly skilled golf professionals committed to nurturing, promoting, and advancing the sport and its industry across BC.

Explore last year’s PGA of BC Golfathon for ALS media binder showcasing event highlights.

PROJECT HOPE

A Beacon of Light in the Fight Against ALS.

Under the leadership of neurologist and ALS researcher, Dr. Erik Pioro, PROJECT HOPE emerges in 2024 as a pioneering initiative with a bold and visionary agenda for the next 3-5 years. Our mission is to ignite a beacon of hope for everyone touched by ALS – from patients and their families to caregivers, clinicians, specialists, researchers, and beyond. At the heart of our efforts are the individuals bravely facing ALS, to whom we dedicate our unwavering commitment to make a significant difference.

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Support the Society:

Become a Monthly Donor

Do you want to save time and simplify your giving?

If you answered yes to this question, then you should consider becoming a monthly donor. Monthly donations are the easiest and most effective way to support our society. Giving any amount every month can help us achieve our mission to cure ALS through funding research while advocating for and supporting people living with ALS or PLS.

50/50 Raffle Fundraiser

Don’t miss your chance to support ALS & PLS patients in BC & Yukon by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets for only $5 each with no limits! Help fuel crucial patient services and make a real difference.

Mark your calendars for the June 28 draw – join the excitement and help change lives!

Why I Donate to the Monthly Giving Program

Kelsey Dunwoodie (centre) with her mom Denise Pelton (left) and her sister Laurel Costello (right)

“I choose to support the ALS Society of BC as 3 members of my family, including our dad, passed far too young from ALS and were supported in their short battle with the disease by the Society. I participate in the monthly giving program as it’s easy to do and I know that regular, reliable contributions are very powerful for charitable organizations to be able to plan programs and services with a higher degree of confidence.”

Kelsey Dunwoodie, Coquitlam, BC

Did You Know

According to Will Power’s 2023-2024 mid-campaign results:

  • Canadians under 50: 18% are considering leaving a gift to charity in their Wills, and 10% have done it.
  • Canadians 50+: 12% are considering leaving a gift to charity in their Wills, and 6% have done it.

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Our Programs & Services:

Tips & Tricks

Check out our Tips & Tricks web page, where you can find many resources and products suggested by people living with ALS, PLS and their caregivers. From bathroom to bedroom, kitchen to garden, communication to transportation, you can discover how to adapt your environment and activities to your needs and abilities.

Robert R. Heinrich Equipment Loan Program

Our Equipment Loan Program is a free service to eligible patients and provides a wide range of basic and essential assistive devices and equipment, from mobility aids to communication devices. Patients can also access our advanced technology inventory, which includes state-of-the-art robotic devices, smart home systems, and more.

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Celebrating a Decade of Impact: The 10th Anniversary of the Ice Bucket Challenge!

This global phenomenon has touched hearts and minds worldwide, raising millions to support Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Motor Neuron Disease (ALS/MND) research, care, and advocacy. Let’s honour the legacy of the Ice Bucket Challenge and continue our journey toward a world without ALS.

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Upcoming Events:

BMO Vancouver Marathon | May 4-5, 2024

The Marathon, Half Marathon, and 8KM events are all sold out, but you can still register for “The Kids Fun Run” on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

How Can I Participate in Other Ways?
As a proud official charity sponsor of the marathon, we aim to raise $20,000.00 this year to help provide vital assistance and resources to those affected by ALS or PLS. Visit our fundraising donation web page, where you can donate directly to our Society or one of our participating marathon teams.


Move to Cure ALS

Mark Your Calendars!
Our signature fundraising campaign is under three months away, and we want YOU to be a part of it! Whether you walk, run, roll, or show your support, there are countless ways to get involved and champion this incredible cause.

Join Us in Person or Virtually
Wherever you are, you can be a part of the movement! With 14 community events throughout BC, a “Move” awaits you to join this inspiring journey. Start your own team and rally your friends, family, and colleagues, or join an existing team and amplify your impact. Don’t want to team up? No problem! You can register as an individual!

Community “Moves”
Every step we take and every voice we raise can make a real difference. Let’s work together to make this campaign our most successful one yet! Will you join us?

Choose the community you want to join, and let’s build a better future together. Thank you for your support!

Virtuals Events

Fraser Valley | Tri-Cities | Virtual

In-person Events

Saturday, June 1st: Richmond-Vancouver | West Kootenay

Saturday, June 8th: Vernon | Victoria | Williams Lake

Sunday, June 9th: Kelowna | Mid-Island

Saturday, June 15th: Kamloops | Surrey

Saturday, June 22nd: Powell River

Sunday, June 23rd: Prince George


Camp Alohi Lani | August 22-25, 2024

A camp for youth with a parent or grandparent living with ALS or PLS which offers support, fun, and friendship.


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