Beyond the diagnosis: my experience navigating ALS

My name is Tre Archibald and I was diagnosed with ALS at just 23 years old.  

I first noticed symptoms in high school — constant muscle twitching, soreness, and stiffness. I was a healthy, active teenager, so it didn’t make sense. I’ll never forget learning that the average life expectancy is just two to five years. Nothing prepares you for that. 

At the time, my life was just beginning. I had taken out a loan to set up a farming business in my hometown of Strongfield, Saskatchewan. And I was in year four of military service, working through my master corporal’s course.  

And then I was told I have a fatal, degenerative disease. Farming was put on hold. I was medically discharged from the military. And I was overwhelmed with worry — not just for myself, but for my parents and brothers. I didn’t want them to feel the pain of watching ALS slowly paralyze me. 

Thanks to decades of donor-funded research, I’m now receiving a treatment (Qalsody) that’s slowing the progression of my specific type of ALS and helping preserve my independence and hope.  

June is ALS Awareness Month in Canada. It’s a time for reflection, empathy, and action. This month, I’m reflecting on the impact compassionate donors have had in changing my life following my diagnosis. But this isn’t the reality for all people living with this devastating disease. 

ALS continues to progress rapidly for thousands of Canadians. For these families, time is everything. That’s why ALS Canada is looking to welcome 30 new monthly donors this month—to help accelerate progress toward a world free of ALS. 

Let me tell you why now is the perfect time to become a monthly donor: 

Your gift will be matched. The first 30 monthly donations will be matched for three months by generous supporters* — doubling your impact.  

You’ll support vital programs, including: 

• The ALS Canada Research Program, the only national source of dedicated funding for ALS research, supporting the most promising peer-reviewed research to advance the understanding and treatment of ALS.  
• Online support groups that provide comfort and connection.  
• The ALS Canada Canadian ALS Learning Institute (CALI), where people can learn about ALS research and advocacy to become ambassadors for the ALS community. 

As a thank-you, ALS Canada will send you a free “United in ALS” tote bag when you become a monthly donor. 

These days, I’m grateful that my family can see me living independently and running a farm— not declining from ALS. I’ve learned so much since my diagnosis five years ago. And while ALS is devastating, there is real hope on the horizon.  

You can be part of that hope. Join us in fueling research breakthroughs, like Qalsody, that are changing lives. All it takes is a monthly commitment — just click the link and take action today. 

*Up to a maximum of $1,800.