Every day, more than 3,000 people and families throughout Ontario and Canada live with the realities of ALS, a devastating disease that takes away dreams, abilities, and lives. But for all ALS takes, it cannot take away our shared desire for a future without this disease.
We rely on you – our generous donors – to support us in carrying out our collective mission. Many people are surprised to learn we do not receive any government funding – making the collective impact of your contributions more impressive and important. And as the vehicle that helps to translate your desire for a future without ALS into meaningful progress and impact, the ALS Society of Canada is grateful for all that you do.
Because of your support of the ALS Society of Canada, you and other people like you are part of a dedicated and committed community whose momentum is creating real and meaningful change.
Donors who fuel our work make the research that inspires hope for future treatments possible; your support of advocacy that keeps pressure on government for better care and access within the healthcare system will create change; and the practical and emotional support services that help people and families in Ontario cope with the challenges of the disease can continue to improve.
Together we are powerful, and the ALS Canada 2018 Annual Report shares the voices and perspectives of the ALS community and the recent accomplishments that are helping us to move closer to a future without ALS.
Here are just a few highlights made possible because of you over the last year:
2,600 pieces of equipment were provided to Ontarians living with ALS in 2018 through ALS Canada’s Equipment Loan Program.
A total of 150 support group meetings took place throughout Ontario, enabling caregivers and people living with ALS to receive encouragement, comfort and advice from others with firsthand knowledge of the disease.
More than 550 Canadians participated in an online survey and focus groups to inform ALS Canada’s submission about edaravone to the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH), which plays an important role in the decisions provinces make about how drug costs are covered.
The ALS Canada Research Program awarded more than $1.5 million in research grants.