There are about 4,000 Canadians living with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease and was the physical condition that affected astrophysicist Stephen Hawking for most of his life.

People diagnosed with ALS end up losing almost all control over themselves physically. Currently, there are few effective treatments for ALS and no cure. ALS Canada Community Lead Krishna Sagoo said there are 130 to 150 people with ALS in Eastern Ontario. The Review is aware there are at least two people in Vankleek Hill and the surrounding area with ALS requiring care, and this also creates extra needs for their families.

Approximately 1,000 Canadians die each year from ALS. A similar number of Canadians are diagnosed with ALS each year. Eighty per cent of people with ALS die within two to five years of diagnosis.

Sagoo helps people with ALS in Eastern Ontario and their caregivers navigate the health care system, including with arranging homecare services from Ontario Health at Home, occupational therapy, accessibility, and equipment such as wheelchairs and hospital beds.

ALS Canada provides virtual and in-home discussions with individuals and caregivers.

“It affects the entire family,” Sagoo said.

Discussions include advanced support and end-of-life care.

Virtual support groups are also available for caregivers to connect with each other.

Upon diagnosis, people with ALS and their caregivers may register online with ALS Canada and will be contacted by a Community Lead like Krishna Sagoo or one of her colleagues. ALS Canada works in connection with the ALS Clinic at the Ottawa General Hospital.

Funds donated to ALS Canada assist with the equipment program that allows people with ALS and caregivers to obtain assistive devices, and with research and advocacy activities.

On Friday, October 24, $5 from every new subscription to The Review sold that day will be donated to ALS Canada. People with ALS and their families need our support. Help protect the truth by supporting The Review and its work Connecting Communities.