A Community of Faith and Support

Julie M. Sharpe, President & CEO of ALS United Greater Chicago, also serves on the Board of Directors for ALS Family of Faith, reflecting her deep commitment to ensuring that individuals and families impacted by ALS receive compassionate, community-centered support throughout their journey.

ALS Family of Faith, founded in January 2021 under the inspired leadership of Steve Cochlan, embodies a profound commitment to restoring dignity and hope to those affected by ALS and their families. What began as a heartfelt vision has blossomed into a beacon of support, surpassing our initial expectations in less than three years.

ALS United Greater Chicago and ALS Family of Faith have been partners since inception, understanding the need in the community to provide these services. Currently, they are serving over 300 clients, both people with ALS and their caregivers. Since inception, they have conducted over 6,500 meetings, providing a lifeline of support to those navigating the challenges of ALS.

They WALK IN when others walk away. All it takes is filling out one form to express interest in being paired with a Care Partner.

They WALK TOGETHER when it feels too hard. They make sure you get paired with the right Care Partner for you, and they will meet with you regularly in the manner that suits you the best (phone, zoom, text) to listen to you, be a shoulder to cry on, a reminder of hope.

They WALK THROUGH this season of darkness. Each of their Care Partners is well versed in the specifics of ALS, and many of them have been personally affected by the disease. They understand how dark these days can be, and they are there to remind you that you are not alone on this journey.

Learn more at alsfamilyoffaith.center.

The impact of ALS Family of Faith is best understood through the voices of those they serve. Samuel Vera, a caregiver from the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago, has been walking alongside his wife, Armenia Rodriguez-Vera, since her ALS symptoms began in May 2022, which they initially believed to be sciatica. She was officially diagnosed in February 2024, and their journey since then has been filled with challenges, strength, and unwavering love. Samuel shares how ALS Family of Faith has been a vital source of spiritual support, encouragement, and connection as they navigate life with ALS together.

Can you share how you first learned about ALS Family of Faith?

My wife found this wonderful group on Facebook and shared it with me.

Would you recommend ALS Family of Faith to other ALS families? Why?

Yes. They understand what ALS patients are going through and that it’s an emotional rollercoaster. And also how hard it is for caregivers dealing with their loved ones with ALS. It’s hard seeing a loved one decline and knowing there’s nothing you can do.

What support does ALS Family of Faith provide? How does it help you and your loved one?

I talk to someone on a weekly basis. He provides guidance, motivation and spiritual guidance. When my wife and I are having the ups and downs dealing with the disease, talking with someone helps me out. It brings me back to reality and reminds me of the loved one that I am here to take care of.

How has being part of their community helped you feel more connected or less isolated?

It helps me feel connected by guiding me with certain things we’re going through that no one here in my home has dealt with.

What advice would you give to other caregivers considering ALS Family of Faith’s support?

Reach out to them, they will help guide you on this rough journey. It will only get worse as this awful disease progresses. Talk to someone and let them know how you’re feeling without judgement. Then pray together and you’ll feel much better. Having and keeping your Faith is a powerful thing…you’ll be surprised how God hears OUR PRAYERS.