An ALS diagnosis is the beginning of a life-altering journey. Without the appropriate equipment, people with ALS can face dangerous mobility hazards as their disease progresses. Even a single fall can result in a broken bone, or worse. Thankfully, you can help ensure safety and a higher quality of life for people with ALS.
You can provide 30 families with direct financial assistance!
Shelley Wright’s story is a wonderful example of the profound impact of your generosity. Years before her diagnosis, Shelley was the first female athletic trainer at Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA, inspiring a newspaper article that caused Penn State to open their doors to female trainers, too. After many years in business—including running her own postal franchise—she is now able to work part-time for the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce, bringing her vast business skillset to the work as a consultant.
“ALS Northwest finds the tools we need – and it’s been amazing. We’re just really grateful.”
— Shelley Wright, a person with ALS in Aloha, Oregon
After her ALS diagnosis in March of 2024, Shelley needed to find a way to stay mobile. She received a scooter from our Medical Equipment Program and funds from our Financial Assistance Program that allowed her to purchase additional items like a walker and a portable ramp. Because of these items, she was able to get in and out of her vehicle safely and even continue camping—something she loves to do with her wife, Susan.
Shelley met Susan, a realtor, through a twist of fate. After living just a couple houses apart from each other for 11 years, they finally connected when Susan helped Shelley sell her house. Since getting married in 2015, they share a beloved dog, Diego, enjoy outdoor adventures, and love to watch movies together. Susan is a devoted partner and caregiver, cooking for Shelley and helping get her in and out of the car.
Care Services Coordinator Amber Smith recently connected Shelley with a lift chair recliner from a family with ALS that no longer needed it—a resource that she and Susan wouldn’t have identified otherwise. “Amber has been so instrumental. She’s our guardian angel,” Susan shared. The Beaverton ALS Support Group provides additional connections and friendships with others who truly understand the disease. “If anything comes from this illness, it’s the support and the friends you meet,” Shelley reflected.
Your Donation Today Provides Medical Equipment
The medical equipment Shelley needs will change as her ALS progresses, and these needs can be incredibly challenging to navigate without guidance. Your donation directly funds programs that will continue to meet her mobility needs, providing essential equipment, financial assistance and a network of care for Shelley and others with ALS. Your contribution today empowers individuals like Shelley to live life to the fullest and continue navigating hobbies safely.
Join us in giving families like Shelley and Susan’s the tools, hope and community they deserve.
Provide 30 families with direct financial assistance—help raise $15,000 by March 31, 2025!