With tremendous support from Canada’s seven National Hockey League (NHL) teams, individuals and several communities, the ALS Super Fund has achieved a significant milestone: surpassing its first $1 million in donations through Charitable Impact’s Cause Fund program. This achievement marks a significant contribution to the fight against ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), leveraging the enthusiasm of sports fans to foster social change.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is one of the most devastating diseases affecting humanity. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder selectively targets motor neurons, which are essential for transmitting signals from the brain to muscles. As these neurons die, individuals with ALS progressively lose their ability to move, swallow, and breathe, ultimately leading to death. The average life expectancy for someone diagnosed with ALS is just 2 to 5 years, and currently, there is no cure. The journey through ALS is incredibly challenging, not only for the person diagnosed but also for their family and caregivers. The emotional and physical toll is immense, compounded by the significant financial burden associated with managing the disease. This is why ALS is often referred to as the “bankruptcy disease,” as the costs of care and treatment can be overwhelming for families.

Given the complexity of ALS and the significant impact it has on individuals, caregivers, and families, it takes a village of charities and societies in Canada working together to provide holistic support, improve the care, and fund cutting-edge research. In order to assist donors to choose the right charity to support ALS, Cause Funds provide donors with a central hub for giving and progress updates. The ALS Super Fund simplifies the donation process and enables confidence in support of a complex and multi-faceted cause, as experienced leaders meticulously direct the money to the most impactful charities and programs advancing towards a cure for ALS. This collaborative effort, led by former NHL player Mark Kirton who is living with ALS, exemplifies ALS Action Canada, a growing, patient-led movement committed to eradicating the disease. 

In 2018, Mark received the devastating diagnosis of ALS. Despite the grim prognosis, he continues to challenge expectations, confronting ALS directly with unyielding determination. Six years later, he still stands firm, not only fighting the illness but also rallying an entire nation in unity against ALS with the Cause Fund, serving as a symbol of hope for all Canadians wrestling with its grip.

“Without question, the Super Fund reaching the 1 million threshold is a highlight in our quest to find a cure for ALS. But what cannot be forgotten is the incredible ALS advocacy awareness that has also been achieved. In many ways, it might be as important as the donations themselves. People across Canada now know what ALS is and how devastating it is for the patient and caregiving families,” said Mark Kirton. “Each and every year, we want to sustainably build on the success and of course not rest until a cure is found.”