News & Stories
Honoring the Legacy of Diana Hendrickson
Diana Hendrickson passed away on November 29, 2024. She was a dedicated Board Member and advocate for people living with ALS.
Diana Hendrickson’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and advocacy. A cherished member of the ALS Northwest community, Diana’s unwavering commitment to our mission was rooted in her personal journey: Her husband Kirk passed away from ALS in 2016.
Kirk’s diagnosis inspired Diana to do everything she could to fight ALS. Her medical background as a family practice nurse and healthcare administrator equipped her with the determination to find a cure. She became an incredible advocate for people with ALS, committed to becoming an expert on all potential treatments and on the latest research.
“Diana was an amazing woman with a heart for service and dedication to family. I had the privilege to walk with Kirk and Diana on Kirk’s journey of ALS [as their regional Care Services Coordinator],” shared Mary Rebar. “Diana was well known in Linn and Benton counties for her work at the Corvallis Clinic… I am grateful Diana served on the ALS Northwest board as the Willamette Valley regional representative, for she was truly devoted to people living with ALS and finding a cure. I will really miss Diana.”
Photo: Diana with ALS Northwest staff member Mary Rebar.
As a Board Member for ALS Northwest, Diana thoughtfully guided the organization with her healthcare background and personal experience with ALS. Her voice at ALS Luncheons inspired countless others to join the fight against this devastating disease. She was also a dedicated Helping Hands Volunteer, offering tangible support to families navigating the challenges of ALS. With the help of her family, Diana even raised over $120,000 in funds for people with ALS through an annual golf tournament.
“Diana was always ready to lend a hand… Her kindness and energy impacted the ALS community and everyone fortunate enough to know her,” shared Cassy Adams, Senior Director: Mission and Operations at ALS Northwest.
Diana’s kindness extended beyond ALS advocacy. She was also an active volunteer for people with disabilities. As a healthcare professional, she valued authentic connections with her colleagues and patients. Family and community were especially crucial to her; she cherished opportunities to invite guests into her home and to spend time with her six grandchildren. After her cancer diagnosis, Diana continued treatment as long as she could to maximize the time spent with her loving family.
“Diana was a passionate advocate for people with ALS,” said Executive Director Lance Christian. “She was a leader in our community fundraising and volunteering her time and energy. Her compassion and caring were her strengths as a volunteer and Board Member. She always wanted to make sure that people with ALS and their families were at the forefront of everything ALS Northwest did… she made a huge impact on our ALS community.”