Strategies for coping with ALS
There is no “right” way to deal with an ALS diagnosis. ALS progresses differently in everyone. Everyone’s family and social support, financial circumstances, and life experiences are different. Whatever your journey may be, know that the ALS Society of Alberta is here to help you every step of the way.
Coping with grief
Grief is the outward sign of bereavement and mourning. People living with ALS often feel anticipatory grief. Anticipatory grief happens when you are considering future losses – changes in your ability to do things for yourself, giving up plans for your retirement, having to stop working, changing social roles and relationships, missing social activities, and ultimately the loss of life itself. Allowing yourself to grieve can be beneficial. When feelings are repressed, they gain power; when they are embraced, you gain strength.
Coping with daily needs
Many people will look at life with ALS as a series of losses, but it could also be a unique opportunity to bring a different meaning to your life. How you approach the course of your disease is your choice. If you choose to bring a different meaning to your life, it can take many forms. These choices are very personal. You can learn to appreciate things in the world around you that you previously took for granted. You can take time to read, listen to music, or be part of something that gives you joy and hope.
Dealing With a Diagnosis?
We can help with equipment and support.
The ALS Society of Alberta provides support to those living with ALS across the province through a wide variety of programs. Individuals living with ALS and their loved ones can request help with information about ALS, with services that are available, and with access to equipment, home care, and other services. The ALS Society of Alberta also hosts support groups across the province to provide the ALS community with an opportunity to connect and share their experiences, expand their support networks, and engage in a forum for education.
The provincial Equipment Loan Program assists people affected by ALS by lending power mobility devices, assistive communication devices, and other equipment as needed. The Equipment Loan Program is free of charge to ensure support is available when needed.
Support groups.
The ALS Society of Alberta offers both online and in-person support group meetings to ensure accessibility for individuals and their loved ones across Alberta.
The ALS Society of Alberta offers support groups and information sessions to help people living with ALS, their families, loved ones, and caregivers.
Client Support Groups
These give clients space for peer connection, emotional support, and resource sharing.
ALS Caregiver Support Group
These provide ALS caregivers with information about supporting a loved one living with ALS.
Staying in Touch Support Groups
These keep those who have experienced an ALS loss connected with their support network.
All support groups and information sessions are provided free of charge. They are offered in casual group settings that allow everyone to share their experiences, information, and support.
Please note: you or your loved one must be registered with the ALS Society of Alberta to attend.
If you would like more information about support groups, please contact us: Provincial Office | 403-228-3857 | info@www.alsab.ca
Alan’s story
“Make the choices that keep you moving forward. Don’t hesitate.”
Alan spent over three decades working in oil exploration, travelling the world before returning to Calgary to work locally. It was then that he began noticing changes in his strength, followed by cramping and weakness in his legs, and everyday tasks becoming more difficult.
