Making It Possible #29 – Connie Stonehouse
Before I was diagnosed with ALS, I was a retired marketing representative with the gift of gab. I enjoyed talking with people, building relationships, and connecting with others. Communications was a big part of who I was.
On April 8, 2026, my life changed when I was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). My first reaction was devastation. I remember thinking, “This is impossible.” It was difficult to accept and understand what this diagnosis would mean for my future.
One of the earliest signs was the loss of my voice. For someone who loved to talk, this was especially challenging. Some of my biggest struggles have been having people understand me over the phone and learning how to pronounce words clearly again. Communication, something that once came naturally, has become something I work at every day.
Despite these challenges, I have been blessed with incredible support. The ALS Society of Alberta has been a tremendous source of help and encouragement. They have provided me with equipment that has made daily life easier, but more importantly, they have been there to listen and talk when I needed support. Since the day I was diagnosed, they have felt like an extension of my family.
My greatest source of strength has been my family. My husband Bruce, our two children, and five grandchildren have stood beside us every step of this journey. They play a key role in my physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. Through the good times and the difficult times, they make me laugh, feel loved, and remind me that I am not alone. Their support helps me continue moving forward each day.
I am also grateful for my friends and the many people who have gathered around me since my diagnosis. Their kindness, encouragement, and presence brought comfort and joy during a time that could otherwise feel overwhelming.
My faith has carried me through the hardest moments. My belief in God/Creator gives me hope, strength and peace. I believe in a future where there is no more suffering and no more pain. This faith helps me face each day with courage and gratitude.
My Indigenous culture is also an important source of strength and guidance in my life. It has taught me to respect the land, the water, and all living things. Spending time outdoors and observing the natural world reminds me of the deep connection we all share with creation.
Today, I find joy in simple things. I enjoy watching the weather, my garden, birds and appreciate the beauty of everyday life. Every morning when I wake up and can put my feet on the ground, walk, smile, and spend time with the people I love, I am grateful. These moments remind me that every day is a gift.
If I could offer advice to someone newly diagnosed with ALS, I would say this: take time to process, understand your diagnoses. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, but remember that there is still hope. Lean on the people who love you. Cherish every moment, because every day is a gift. Focus on what brings you joy, and never underestimate the power of faith, family, friends, and community support.
ALS is part of my story, but it does not define me. I am still Connie Stonehouse. I continue to find reasons to smile, laugh, dance, reasons to be thankful, and reasons to hope. My journey is one of faith, culture, resilience, love and gratitude, and I will continue to live each day to the fullest.
