Making It Possible #8 – Dolores (Dee) Schture
In the spring of 2024, I first noticed something was wrong with my right hand while working as a cashier at Home Depot. At first, my healthcare team and I believed it was carpal tunnel. But as time went on, everyday tasks became more and more difficult. Even getting dressed started to feel challenging, and I knew something more was going on.
After returning to my doctor, I was referred to a neurologist. In March 2025, following a series of tests, I received an ALS diagnosis. I remember being shocked. I thought about a lot of things, including the first time I ran in Betty’s Run for ALS in the late 90’s. That was my first long-distance run, and I’ll be at this year’s Side by Side for ALS Run & Walk in Calgary.
The following month, I attended the ALS Clinic alongside my family, where the diagnosis was confirmed. While the news was difficult, the clinic team and the ALS Society of Alberta immediately made both me and my family feel supported and cared for. We were given information, guidance, and reassurance at a time when everything felt uncertain.
Through it all, my family has remained a constant source of strength and encouragement.
Like many people living with ALS, I have had to learn to accept help with certain tasks. It can be frustrating sometimes. But rather than focusing on what I can no longer do, I try to focus on living and making the most of the time I have with the people I love.
Since my diagnosis, my husband and I took a two-week trip to Mexico, the first time we had ever taken that long away together. I also travelled to Phoenix with all of my grandchildren for a 10-day family vacation.
We had a blast, and I can’t help but smile when I think of the memories that we made together on those trips. ALS can’t take that away.
Time with family remains at the centre of everything. Our traditions continue, even if they look a little different these days. We continue to celebrate together as a family. We just share the meal preparation now.
My approach to life now is simple: taking things one day at a time. Through every challenge and adjustment, I continue to focus on what matters most: family, connection, and fully living in each moment.
