Making It Possible #10 – Sandi Saari
My name is Sandi Saari. In 2023, I began noticing symptoms such as dropping things more often, though at the time I assumed it was simply part of getting older and didn’t think much of it. In December of 2023, my husband unexpectedly passed away, and understandably my focus shifted away from my own health.
Around that same period, I underwent some testing at Body Restoration and was referred to the Kaye Clinic, but I paused further medical follow-up until April of 2024. That April, I attended the Kaye Clinic where they told me I had ALS.
Every day, I try to find the positives in living with ALS. While no one chooses the ALS journey, I received remarkable care from the team at the Kaye Clinic and the ALS Society of Alberta. I know I can always call and have my questions answered. The ALS Society of Alberta loaned me a walker, bed, and more recently I received a power wheelchair which I jokingly refer to as my Cadillac. Since getting my Cadillac, I can zoom all over and have been so grateful to have it.
In the fall of 2025, I moved into Valleyview Longterm Care as it was no longer possible for me to stay in my home. I felt unsure about the move at first. I love my community in Westlock, and Valleyview was only meant to be temporary until I moved to Fort McMurray, where my son lives. But when I arrived at Valleyview, I knew this was where I needed to be. Over the past seven months, the staff have become like family. Their attentive care has truly made Valleyview feel like home.
I’ve met people from all over the world and love the little international community we’ve created together. I feel like God planted me here in Valleyview, and my faith has brought me great comfort through this experience. The staff lovingly call me Princess Sandi, and I feel so blessed to receive the care here that I do.
I know whatever happens will happen, but ALS has not taken away my positive outlook on life, and I’m determined to not let it.
