Impact Report 2022

Our Impact

It is our dream to END ALS through creating a world-class ALS Centre at UBC.  To that end, the ALS Society of BC has pledged to UBC to raise an additional $20M to see this come to fruition.

ALS Research through PROJECT HOPE

  • With your support, the ALS Society of BC was successful with the launch of PROJECT HOPE, raising in excess of $5.3M to establish an endowed trust to fund an ALS Research Professorship at UBC. As this is an endowed trust, funds for the professorship will be in perpetuity. A clinician-scientist will be recruited to oversee, spearhead, and create opportunities for patients to access clinical trials in BC, to become a leader not only in Canada but the world for ALS research. They will champion enhanced care for ALS patients in BC.  UBC has assessed eleven candidates.  We see this as a substantial accomplishment.  The needs haven’t yet been fulfilled by an applicant, and as such, UBC is continuing the search.  They have engaged a specialized recruitment service to assist in the process. Dr Dermot Kelleher, UBC Dean of the Faculty of Medicine has been hands on throughout the process.  Our partnership with UBC is stronger than ever. ALS Society of BC has signed a MOU with UBC to raise $20M to support PROJECT HOPE. The funds are deposited in an interest earning account with the ALS Society of BC until the clinician-scientist is in place. The current balance in the fund is $2,803,096.
  • We are thrilled to report the ALS Clinic is being relocated to UBC.
  • We aren’t at the finish line yet, but tangible progress has been made. This would not be possible without the partnership between the Province of BC, UBC and the ALS Society of British Columbia.

Excellent Support Programs and Clinical Care for ALS Patients in British Columbia

  • Everyone Living with ALS, no matter where they live in BC, has the equal opportunity to access patient and support programs of the Society to improve the patient’s quality of life, their families, and caregivers.  Our support programs include equipment loans, patient transportation support, psychological treatment, support groups and a camp for children of ALS patients.
  • In 2022, the ALS Society of BC cared for 572 registered patients (498 in 2021 & 487 in 2019) through various support programs and patient services initiatives.
    • Provided 1,551 pieces of equipment request to ALS patients.
    • Provided counselling support to 35 families.
    • Provided 20 patient transportation trips.
    • Organized 5 Caregiver Days (Kelowna, Nanaimo, Prince George, Surrey & Victoria).
    • Organized 96 virtual support group meetings.
    • Held two mobile clinics, which took place in Chilliwack & Nanaimo.
    • The camp for children of ALS patients was cancelled in 2022.