AARN in Action
AARN will oversee research activities at both the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary by connecting researchers, identifying opportunities for collaboration, and promoting resource sharing. Regular meetings will ensure continuous communication and brainstorming, fostering a collaborative research environment.
AARN will expand existing research programs and accelerate the completion of ongoing studies. Funding will be efficiently allocated to support new projects and expand peer-reviewed studies across the province. With a streamlined grant competition process, we aim to minimize administrative burdens while maintaining rigorous scientific standards.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that use human volunteers to test new therapies. After scientists test experimental therapies in the laboratory, those with promising results move to clinical trial to determine whether the therapy is safe and effective for use in humans. A new therapy must successfully pass through a series of phases before ultimately being approved by Health Canada and being made widely available to the Canadian public.
Fund Matching Awards
Through strategic investment in fundamental, translational and clinical research, AARN aims to position Alberta-based ALS researchers as global leaders by fostering innovation and collaboration to accelerate discoveries and enhance patient outcomes. The AARN Fund Matching Awards will support ALS researchers applying for large-scale grants that require matching funds.
Celebrating Our Donors
Through AARN, the ALS Society of Alberta and our dedicated donors will witness immediate and tangible results from their contributions. Annual reports and regular updates will highlight the progress and achievements of supported projects, ensuring transparency and recognition of donor impact.
With the support of the ALS Society of Alberta’s Board of Directors and the dedication of our researchers, AARN is poised to position Alberta at the forefront of global ALS research. This collaborative effort promises rapid advancements and an improved future for all Albertans affected by ALS.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to finding a cure for ALS.
Help us make an impact.
Let’s continue to move our ALS research forward.
Funding
Achievements for Ann – The Backlund Fellowship
This Fellowship holds special significance as it was established by Frida Backlund, wife of Calgary Flames’ captain Mikael Backlund, in loving memory of her mother, Ann Engstrom. Ann’s strength and hope inspired Frida and Mikael to create this initiative, which reflects their commitment to supporting meaningful advancements in ALS research.
Funding
The Jennifer Prest Bulbar ALS Fund
Bulbar onset ALS accounts for approximately 30% of ALS cases and is characterized by symptoms that can be poorly recognized in the early stages of the disease. Bulbar onset ALS is especially challenging as it affects how an individual talks and swallows. The research funded by the Jennifer Prest Bulbar ALS Fund aims to shed light on the lengthy and frustrating diagnostic journey faced by many individuals with bulbar onset ALS. Moreover, it seeks to develop diagnostic tools that can identify distinctive speech features associated with bulbar ALS, potentially facilitating earlier detection by non-specialized frontline clinicians.
Help us make an impact.
Let’s continue to move our ALS research forward.