Making It Possible Day 26 – The Awesome Lemonade Stand
Over the past month, you have seen us post a few times about the little Lemonade Stand that could: The Awesome Lemonade Stand.
What started out as a small project for the Andreychuk family to honor their late friend Adam Rombough, ended up taking on a whole new life once Covid-19 changed the world we live in. Like many other events in Edmonton and around the world, they were going to take their Lemonade virtual!
The Andreychuk’s (Katherine, Kris, Claire, Adam & Elizabeth) didn’t let a pandemic stop them from raising awareness for ALS. This family spent hours baking (thanks to Baba!) the yummiest treats, brewing the tastiest lemonade, and packing them up in the most beautiful packaging you could imagine. But their work wasn’t done there, they made home deliveries to each person who requested a goodie bag.
Claire, Adam, Elizabeth, and Fam doubled their goal by bringing in more than $5000.00 for the Walk To End ALS in Edmonton. If that isn’t making it possible, we don’t know what is.
Making it Possible - Margaret (Peggy) Stairs
Peggy loved her friends, loved to socialize and have a fun time, all with a sparkle that no one could resist. She was always classy, impeccably dressed and had a lovely disposition. She truly left her mark with every person she touched.
In 2006, Peggy was diagnosed with Primary Lateral Sclerosis. She faithfully attended the PLS support group in Calgary and considered the members as close friends, deeply appreciating their support, and giving support, through this difficult journey. She loved attending the group and valued the connection she had with each member. And not surprising, the group loved Peggy.
Peggy was born in Toronto and moved to Calgary as an adult, and it remained her home until her final 5 years in Victoria. The challenges Peggy faced as a child growing up prepared her to face life's challenges and to not just persevere but to triumph. She resolved to make the best of a situation and to seize the opportunities that presented themselves.
Peggy had her yellow belt in Judo, a pilot license for gliding, was intimately involved with the Canada Cup Sailing Challenge, and would have LOVED to had the chance to travel in space! She worked as an Executive Secretary for many years, a Realtor and owned All-Type Secretarial Services. When she was no longer able to work due to PLS she spent her winters in Puerto Vallarta. She loved the heat and had wonderful friendships in the ex-pat community.... some of her best memories!
She kept her dear friends close, one of those friends being Jean. For 31 years, Jean and Peggy had a very special mother-daughter type bond. They traveled together to Japan, Thailand, India & Nepal with wild and wonderful adventures that Peggy enjoyed reminiscing about.
As PLS started to take away Peggy’s independence, she didn’t allow it to take away her spirit. Peggy passed away on her birthday, March 5, 2019, with Jean by her side after celebrating her full life with champagne and her favorite chocolate cake. Peggy left a legacy to ensure we continue to “make life better” for our families.
Making it Possible - Peter Benders
It has been five years since Dr. Karla at the University of Alberta diagnosed me with ALS. Not knowing how bad this disease actually is and with the little knowledge I had about the disease, the first time I met with the ALS team at the UofA Kaye Edmonton Clinic, I was asked questions like can you still eat, breath, talk and look after yourself - then I knew what I was facing.
I’ve always had a love for motorcycles and the outdoors, which gave me the opportunity to see this beautiful country from the seat of a motorcycle and from the top of a mountain. Fortunately for me the progression of my ALS journey has been relatively slow. However, as a result of this disease I’ve had to step back and/or give up on being able to do the things that I love which has had a significant impact on my life.
With all of this in mind I would like to give a special thanks to the all of the people and support systems in my life who have had a significant impact on my journey with ALS, and continue to inspire me to be thankful for the life I have lived and to make the best of each day I have left. This includes: the ALS Society of Alberta; the ALS team at the UofA Kaye Edmonton Clinic and South Health Clinic; Edson, Cochrane, and Rockyview Homecare; and the support of Mikael Backlund with the Calgary Flames who made it possible for me and my family to go the Flames / LA game. Most importantly, I am thankful for the love of all my friends and family.
Making it Possible - Dream Casters Society
Today we're featuring another Society that truly "makes it possible" for families living with or affected by ALS along with other circumstances.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Dream Casters Society is dedicated to improving the lives of others by taking them fishing for a day! CAST a few smiles, CATCH a few fish, RELEASE their troubles, and ENJOY a day on the water."
When we met Barry earlier this year, we could see his passion for not only fishing but with putting a smile on other people's faces. Although Covod-19 has put a hold on fishing trips, for now, we hope to be able to work with Barry & Tom soon.
Making it Possible - John van Besouw
My husband, John, was diagnosed with ALS in May 2017 at the age of 50. Until then, John was very healthy and showed no signs of any kind of illness, so the diagnosis left us both shocked and, obviously, quite terrified about what lay ahead. We decided we could accept the diagnosis but we would not, under any circumstances, accept the prognosis, so we chose to hit the ground running in terms of what we could do, in our power, to have some kind of impact on this insidious disease. Despite our best efforts, John’s ALS was quite progressive and we required a lot of help.
After our first ALS Clinic visit, and connecting with the ALS Society, I think “relief” described how we both felt in terms of knowing we weren’t in this alone. Shortly thereafter, we were introduced to Rob Lognon who silently and in a totally non-obtrusive way, became part of our journey and lives. The physical/tangible assistance we received through Rob and the Society was something we never could have navigated through on our own and, thankfully, we didn’t have to. They did everything in terms of supplying us with all of the equipment needed and connecting us to the right people when they didn’t have the equipment on hand. We had everything we needed to make John as comfortable and to live as dignified as humanly possible. As much as we were grateful for the physical assistance, the emotional support Rob was able to provide to both John and I is something that will never be forgotten. John was moved to tears by Rob’s absolute down-to-earth kindness, his humour, and, quite simply, his company and presence.
John and I were blessed enough to have found each other 14 years ago and our story was an amazing one of unbreakable love, humour, strength and resilience. John and I had a summer wedding planned in 2017 but, after the diagnosis, we decided to put our plans on hold. A few months later, John’s sons and my daughters spoke with us about how important it was to them that we go ahead with the wedding. We were married, in my brother’s home with 50 close friends and family around us, on December 30, 2017.
John passed away on January 18, 2020. We believe that John didn’t lose his fight with ALS … he was released from it and is finally free. ALS robbed John of so much, but it never robbed him of his courage, perseverance, humour and his amazing grace. He was a beautiful man who will be missed more than words can convey by everyone he touched. Patty Blair
Making it Possible - Mandy Van Dresar
Making it Possible Day 20: Mandy Van Dresar
Previous WALK Coordinator, Mandy Van Dresar, has worked tirelessly to promote ALS awareness in her city. Before the WALK took place, it had already raised nearly $30,000 for client support services and research. Thank you to Mandy Van Dresar, her friends and family, for #MakingitPossible to host a Walk To End ALS in Grande Prairie. We know it wasn't easy, but your commitment and perseverance to the cause are so inspiring. We hope to be back in Grande Prairie soon with all of those ALS Warriors.
Making it Possible - Dennis Bernales
This is the story of Dennis Bernales, who was diagnosed with ALS in late 2017 and sadly passed away in July of 2019.
In his life, Dennis was strong, positive, and a person full of determination. You never saw a flicker of doubt nor an inkling of tears, he was the kind of man who did everything he could for his family. When he was diagnosed with ALS, perhaps he had the moment of doubt, wondering “why me?”, because he was still in his early 40s. He was so young and wanted to be with his family as much as he possibly could be, only to learn he was terminally ill.
But as the days flew by, the far-too-short months passed, he was still able to hold on with all his strength. Day by day he was slowly lifted up by family and friends that were with him every step of the way. In such a time, he made memories with many people including those at the ALS Society of Alberta, who were with him and his family every step of the way.
Thank you to the ALS Society for making it possible for him to continue on even while his days grew short.
Making it Possible - Lynette Forge
Lynette Forge, owner of Lynette’s Long Arm Quilting
Lynette’s husband Doug was diagnosed with ALS in February 2019, at that time he stated he wanted to work as long as possible as he enjoyed his job and its challenges. Doug was also determined to remain independent and keep a positive outlook.
Shortly after connecting with the ALS Society Doug and Lynette decided they would like to support those who were supporting them.
“I have been teaching quilting since 1988 and I have had the privilege of doing so in Canada, the USA, and England. I sometimes feel we are drowning in quilts, but then along comes another new pattern or idea.
The idea of donating quilts to the society for auction is an easy way to give back to the organization whose support we will continue to need, as this ALS journey continues.”
Making it Possible - ALS Society Board of Directors
Today for our Making it Possible series, we would like to recognize the dedicated members of the ALS Society of Alberta Board of Directors.
Thank you to the ALS Society Board of Directors, for leading the Society to provide the best possible supports for our families across Alberta and fund ground-breaking ALS research.
Nancy, Cathy, Tara, Gord, Heather, Jim and Kimberly give their expertise and valuable time to make each day the best possible day for people living with and affected by ALS. They are a passionate group of people that come together to make a difference. All having been personally touched by ALS, their commitment to the cause is unwavering.
Together, they have made a difference on a provincial and national level to bring awareness to ALS and establish best practices for supports and services.
We are so thankful for their service – in the words of Margaret Mead…
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.
Making it Possible - Neil Bridge
Making it Possible, June 15 - Neil Bridge
First thing - I have a lot to be thankful for. I have a very supportive family and friends and lots of good memories. My wife is amazing, she puts up with me every day and supports me when I am having an off day. My two children and their partners have also been great. My four grandchildren are also involved. I have been able to get to most of my oldest grandson’s football games with help from my wife and his parents. My oldest granddaughter is a delight, she has excelled academically and is an amazing young woman. My two younger grandchildren are showing a lot of promise also.
I have a power wheelchair that the ALS Society of Alberta helped me acquire and I have stairlifts on loan from them. The ALS Society has been so supportive, I would not be as comfortable as I am without them. The support of Alberta Health is also quite remarkable. As I said, I have a lot to be thankful for. I try to be positive every day and show my appreciation for all that is being done for me, to be miserable and hard to live with is not in my DNA. That attitude has served me well. It is no one’s fault that I am sick.
My feeble attempt at poetry is:
I can't hear I can't walk
I can't see I can't talk
Other than that I'm in great shape.
Making it Possible - Pat Bechan
Day 16 of "Making It Possible" - Pat Bachen
Pat was diagnosed with ALS in November 2019 and he continues to live his best life possible as it shows in the creative and inventive work that he continues to do. Building his own Ipad holder out of pool noodles and always helping others if they need advice on “how to fix it.” Pat enjoys attending our current ALS Zoom Coffee groups as social support to connect with others. This is his truly amazing story:
I was born in France and came to Canada in 1952 with my parents. My parents wanted me to keep my first language so I went to College St-Jean when it was a high school. I started Electronics at N.A.I.T. in 1968 and graduated in 1972. These were the days when electronics were mostly calibrating instruments.
My first job was troubleshooting new televisions as they came off the assembly line at the Electrahome plant in Kitchener Ontario. I moved back to Edmonton in 1973 and was hired as an Avionics Technician for Pacific Western Airlines. This position originally was to cover for someone who was off on sick leave. In the end, I spent 9 years with them fixing aircraft and repairing equipment. I have some memorable trips to the far North when they were flying Hercules aircraft up there.
In 1981 PWA moved their maintenance operations to Vancouver. I decided to stay in Edmonton so I found a position at the General Hospital as a Biomedical Technician. In 1988 I was moved to The Grey Nuns Hospital just before opening and was challenged to get the place functioning. This involved not only the medical equipment but anything else that was electronic such as elevators, doors, and even parking gates. Four years later that was accomplished. It still works today.
In 1995 I was laid-off, so I went back to work in aviation for CAE. There I help to rebuild 50 CT-114s (2 Snowbirds) and worked on engineering the Hercules for warfare. In 1997 CAE lost the Hercules contract for servicing so I was laid-off again. That fall I was hired by an oilfield instrument company called Alberta Instrumentation. Within 2 months I invented an instrument that became the industry standard and safest world wide. I have designed all kinds of equipment that are still being used in the oil patch today. In 2006 I was granted a patent from Canada first, then the US for my invention.
In 2005 I started my own business to build and sell my patented device. Then I retired in late 2017.
Making it Possible - Gerry Frohnen
"Making It Possible" Day 14 - Gerry Frohnen
I was diagnosed with Kennedy’s in 2011 after having symptoms for so many years. I was very athletic when I was younger, and looking back and recognizing the progression of the disease has been very interesting.
I have always had a passion for music and was interested in Disc Jockeying in night clubs as many of my family members worked in nightclubs, so I was able to get a job doing what I loved.
I wrote my first poem at the age of 17 when my father passed away. I was sitting in the living room watching TV when words and ideas were coming into my head, so I asked my sister to write them down for me. That poem was called "Relationships"
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I write poems from every emotion- whatever I’m feeling and what makes sense to me. When I was 30, I wrote a poem called "Thoughts Become" in memory of my relationship with my mother. This poem was then published.
I attend the ALS Society’s PLS and Kennedy’s Coffee Groups and decided to share this poem with the others.
I still enjoy making music and seeing the world through positivity
Making it Possible - Jason Louie
Jason Louie Jason recently joined our Kennedy’s/PLS Support Group, and is giving back to the community during the current COVID-19 crisis. We love his ingenious way of providing assistance to our frontline workers!
Since Covid-19 arrived in Alberta pretty much everyone has been impacted (myself included as I was required to work less hours).
I wanted to help out where I could given my new available hours, and as I've been 3D printing for about 2.5 years I figured I might be able to use this experience to help out. Unfortunately (and with good reason), 3D printed PPE requires meeting strict standards and regulations, and as such I hesitated printing items since I did not want to have printed items that weren't going to be used.
I found an opportunity on Facebook where a group was volunteering their time and resources sewing masks (Mask Makers YYC) for front line and other essential workers. There was a call out for any 3D printers for printing some Bias Tape Jigs, (a tool to help fold 2" strips of fabric over to make the straps for the masks). Several people from the Maker community started printing for the group, and I was able to contribute more than 20.
While printing the Bias Tape Jigs, the next opportunity presented itself when fellow Makers were discussing printing Ear Savers - a band that you hook the straps of face masks to relieve stress on the ears from prolonged wearing of masks. With workers required to wear masks for 8+ hour shifts many days at a time, this made sense and I dedicated my printing time to that. I reached out to others in the community and with the help of several key individuals we created a new group specifically for making the Ear Savers, (YYC Ear Savers). To date, I've printed nearly 2000 Ear Savers which have gone to staff in local hospitals, dental offices and extended care homes via the group and directly to staff.
Making it Possible - Della Kostyshen
My husband Ed was diagnosed with ALS on June 28, 2012, at the age of 73. He passed away at home on July 16, 2014.
After sharing the news with family and friends we realized that it was our support from those closest to us that was going to help us get the most out of the life Ed had left. Ed’s breathing was affected and his core muscles were dying. As a result, a feeding tube was put in on July 4th - so changes happened quickly. For us, it was Faith, Family, Friends, and the ALS Society that helped us get through it. Family members and friends immediately came asking what they could do to help out and continued to be at our side until the end. It was the ALS Society that made Ed’s life as comfortable as possible by providing the necessary equipment that was needed at various stages of his journey with this disease.
From the first visit to the Misericordia Hospital to the very end and beyond, the ALS Society and the ALS Clinic were there for us and in-fact still are. The Team at the Clinic was always caring, attentive, and compassionate. They could anticipate what would be needed in the near future and helped us to prepare for it with emotional support and equipment. Sonja at the Clinic was a true advocate in getting breathing equipment as Ed’s needs changed. She even designed a neck brace to hold the breathing tube so that Ed didn’t have to hold it.
Christy and Brandee with the ALS Society were always ‘a step ahead’ of what would be needed next. From the Bi-Pap machine, “Big Bertha” (breathing assist machine), to the wheelchair, the lift chair, the bath assist equipment, and even eating utensils - they all came in a timely fashion. A lift was retro-fitted and installed so that we could get Ed and the wheelchair to ground level; allowing us to keep appointments and outings. Even something as simple as the delivery for Isosource (Ed’s food supplement) was made. All of these things made a huge impact on Ed’s daily life. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
The “Staying In Touch” program is a beautiful program not only to receive support but to offer support to one another. Tears and laughter are shared by those going through the same situation. Friendships are made. And how rewarding it is to see progress made from one visit to another! This is another added program provided by the Society. Thank You!
We can return our thanks by volunteering in The Walk To End ALS and the ALS Society of Alberta Casino Events. Not only are we helping in fundraising but we are making a difference in helping the ones that helped us in the time of our need. Thank You & God bless!!!
Making it Possible - Mikael and Frida Backlund
Mikael and Frida Backlund have been making possibilities for our families since 2015. In honour of Frida’s mom, they have dedicated their valuable time and efforts to support Alberta families affected by ALS.
In addition to donating funds to the ALS Society, they generously provide a night out for families to spend together and enjoy a Calgary Flames Game. 74 families from across Alberta have had the opportunity to attend a game as guests of the Backlunds, and after the game Mikael takes the time to meet each and every family. Frida also organizes annual events to create awareness and raise funds for ALS programs and research. Mikael and Frida not only support the work of the Society, but more importantly, make memories for our families to keep forever.
Even when the COVID pandemic cut the hockey season short, Mikael and Frida ensured the Society received their gift to ensure our families were supported.
Thank you Mikael and Frida!
Making it Possible - John Orfino
Earlier this year, we asked: what family should feature this year about their willingness to volunteer their time? The overwhelming answer, The Orfinos. The reason we met this amazing family was because of an amazing man, John Orfino. In 2016, John was able to tell his own story.
“Hi, my name is John Orfino. I am 51 years old and my life changed dramatically in April of 2015. I was diagnosed with ALS and given three to five years left to live. Dang! That’s the kind of news that can ruin your day. ALS has taken away my ability to work and enjoy the activities I love. But, ALS has not taken away my will to live. Soon after I was diagnosed with ALS I was introduced to the ALS Society of Alberta. Wow, lucky me. They supply me with equipment and living aids that help me in day to day living, at no cost to me.”
John’s family continues to volunteer with the ALS Society each year, donating their time and kind hearts to the Walk to End ALS. Here at the Society we will always remember our star “Eye Candy” member and all of those poker night tales.
We were lucky enough to have John and his family film an ambassador video in 2016, we think it really captures the essence of “Making it possible”.
Making it Possible - Laverne G'froerer
My mother, Laverne G’froerer, passed away in March of 2018 after a battle with both ALS and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), two diseases which unfortunately can go hand-in-hand. While she received assistance from the ALS Society in BC, one part of her story that I will share here provides an example of truly how important the ALS Society of Alberta, and its equipment program, are to the families living with ALS.
A remarkable woman, my mother had one especially amusing (not so amusing when I was in my 20s) trait – the woman could absolutely not sleep until I got home, no matter how old I was. Whether I was at the bar at age 21 or she was babysitting the grandkids while I was at a friend’s in my 40s, she would be awake and waiting when I got home.
This trait became even more pronounced with FTD in its early days, along with some other strange personality traits - her recognition of social norms deteriorated, her sense of humour disappeared, and she lost her language skills. After doing lots of online research, her FTD diagnosis in January of 2017 was what we expected – what we didn’t expect was the ALS diagnosis just 8 months later. Along with that diagnosis unfortunately came a lack of understanding from many in the medical field, not to mention society as a whole. Two rare diseases combined – we didn’t know who to turn to. Thankfully, the ALS Society provided the support and equipment that our family needed. Adapted cutlery, a walker, a Bi-Pap machine, bed rails, and the piece that is so important to this brief story – a boogie board.
The boogie board provided mom with the ability to write notes to us, as we couldn’t understand her speech by the fall of 2017. Unfortunately due to her FTD, her notes became increasingly limited as the months went on. They were usually very brief statements such as “I love you” – she never asked about the grandkids, or even a simple “how are you?”
By February of 2018 she was in a care facility, and the notes written on the board were few and far between. One day when visiting, I mentioned that after I left the that day I would be meeting friends for dinner and drinks in downtown Vancouver. The next morning I arrived and mom was very agitated, she tapped my hand repeatedly and tried to speak as soon as I sat down, and it was obvious that she had not slept overnight. I grabbed her boogie board, and this is what she wrote:
“What time did you get in?!”
My mother, only a month from passing and for the most part unrecognizable from the vibrant woman she once was, wanted to know what time I got home from the bar at the night before. That moment meant the absolute world to me, as it showed me that somewhere beneath those two horrible diseases, she was still in there.
Mom passed just a month later, on March 26, 2018. And on March 26, 2019, I had that phrase, in her handwriting, tattooed on my arm. I always joke that when I am in Las Vegas out in the wee hours of the morning, I will look down at my arm and remind myself that mom thinks I should go to bed.
I now work for the ALS Society of Alberta, as I truly know how important this organization is to the families struggling with this disease. The help of ALS Societies across this country truly make special moments possible during the course of the disease – they help us find the joyous moments as we live with ALS.
Making it Possible - Margaret Moore
In the summer of 2018, I was so pleased to see my husband Peter starting to lose his tummy, his clothes fit much better. I was proud of him. Shortly after his speech was slurred, has he had a stroke? After a visit with our family doctor who had commented that Peter did not have a stroke followed by comments one being he didn’t think it was ALS. I Googled ALS only to read that Peter had many of the symptoms. This was followed by visits to Specialists at the Kay Clinic and the diagnosis of ALS and my Peter would probably have two years to live. We were both in shock.
We were then referred to the ALS Society for support. We were overwhelmed with what was offered from personal counseling, equipment, support groups, referrals, and just about anything we needed. The scooter, hospital bed, bath chair, walker, etc were tangible items but the emotional support (and the many hugs) helped us tolerate this nightmare we were experiencing.
Our lifestyle had changed dramatically from the busy life of travel and leisure as retirees to one of the medical appointments, walks with Peter using a scooter (our grandkids loved this), and more staying at home. As the disease progressed it meant tube feeding, machines in our bedroom, a walker, Peter losing his ability to swallow, and speak, but he could always communicate via an app on his cell phone. The adjustment that I dreaded but became a reality was the hospital bed. Being married for 52 years we had to face the fact that we could no longer share a bed.
The positive was my good health so I could care for Peter and he could stay home until the end. I helped him shower, massaged his legs and feet with lotion, helped him dress, help with his feeding, and assisted in any outings. Each morning Peter could wash, brush his teeth, shave. We both experienced the continued intimacy with the personal care I was able to give him. This was big for both of us.
As I write this it is 4 months to the day that our children and I were with Peter at home as he passed away. Because he could not speak he shared with us 3 songs on his tablet, his way of saying, all is okay, I am ready, I love you and goodbye. It was so hard and continues to be, not to have this wonderful husband, father, and grandpa in our lives.
Making it Possible - Rick Howard
Rick Howard
On January 24, 2018, my husband Rick received the news that he had ALS. Though he had been having symptoms of something for a year, it was a surprising blow to hear the diagnosis. Gradually losing the ability to move through his world has been the most difficult part of this ALS journey.
The ALS Society of Alberta and Alberta Health Services have been there for both of us with assistance and support. Walkers, wheelchairs and power wheelchairs have been a boon. Mobility is so important, and living in a small town in a country setting makes long distances a fact of life. Everything from doctors’ appointments to family gatherings have become harder and harder as it becomes increasingly difficult for Rick to get in and out of the car and then into his wheelchair. Enter some good friends that are in the auto mechanic industry - they made it their mission to find a wheelchair accessible van for Rick, which as it turns out is a rather difficult task! But they did it, and the look on Rick’s face when they rolled up with that beautiful van was precious. He is mobile again and we have the ability to go where we need to and where we want to again. Help is always around and we are very grateful for it.
Making it Possible - Shirley Bailey
We are so pleased to tell you the courageous story of a remarkable woman, Shirley Bailey.
The year 2018 was a challenging one for Shirley, she would constantly find herself tripping over her own feet. Unbothered by her fall, passing it off as silly clumsiness, it wasn’t until after a Carpel Tunnel surgery that she fell once again only to realize this time it may have been something more serious. After a few more health issues arose that year, Shirley was hospitalized. A short stint in the hospital passed only for another obstacle to show itself, Shirley had had an allergic reaction to her Morphine and had become extremely ill. At this point, she was sent to the Glenrose Rehab Hospital.
Shirley’s time at Glenrose was a positive time in her life. She was receiving therapy every day and working on her health and wellness. Shirley’s daughter, Teresa, relayed some information to the Glenrose staff that could really help her overcome some of the obstacles placed before her, Shirley was an artist and loved to paint. The caretakers were able to set up a painting station each day, they would open her paints when she could not and clean up the supplies when she was finished for the day. Shirley began to feel like herself again.
Her progress at Glenrose was slowing coming to a halt, as her muscles were no longer strengthening. Then, after a routine neurologist appointment came to the news: ALS. Shirley and her doctor cried together in the office after receiving the results, but the news would not break her spirit. The team at Glenrose showed astounding support and never forced her to use any machines she wasn’t comfortable or ready for. Each day she continued to paint for as long as her body would allow her. Painting gave Shirley the positivity and purpose she was looking for.
A heartwarming note, Teresa, now finishes the paintings that Shirley is unable to complete.
Shirley then moved to Capital Care Norwood, she had continued her passion and had even taken the time to teach another patient, how to paint. Shirley would like her paintings to go to her children, as well as possible auction items for the ALS Society to help aid in the research and care for other ALS affected families.