In Our United Era: Legacy of Care, Future of Hope

2024 marks 20 years of service for ALS United Greater Chicago. Together, we’ve built a Legacy of Care—offering cost-free services and steadfast support to individuals and families navigating the challenges of ALS in Illinois.

This Giving Season, your gift will have double the impact. Thanks to the Braun and Sigesmund families, every donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000. Your generosity will ensure that no family faces ALS alone while paving the way for a brighter Future of Hope.

Join Jim in Supporting ALS Warriors Like Kathy

Jim and Kathy grew up as neighbors, never imagining the future they would share. As adults, they fell in love, married, and built a life full of love, laughter, and travel. Over 48 years of marriage, they raised their daughter Nicole and created a life of beautiful memories.

When Kathy was diagnosed with ALS in 2020, the challenges they faced were unimaginable. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jim and Kathy found a lifeline in Peggy, their Care Services Coordinator, who guided them every step of the way. Kathy passed away just five months after her diagnosis, but the unwavering support from ALS United Greater Chicago meant the Brauns never faced the challenges alone.

Reflecting on that time, Jim shared: “My first contact with ALS United Greater Chicago was Peggy O’Connor. She was more than a care coordinator—she was an angel. She told me I could call her any time, and I did.”

Peggy provided a personal care plan, resources, and compassionate guidance, helping Jim and Kathy navigate the unthinkable.

Now, Jim is honoring Kathy’s memory by ensuring more families like his receive the care they need. Will you join him?

The Sigesmund Family: A Legacy of Giving

For several years, the Sigesmund family has honored Carol—a wife, mother, and friend who lost her battle with ALS in 2019—by giving back to others. Carol and her family received staunch support from ALS United Greater Chicago throughout her ALS journey. Carol’s son, Steven, shared his heartfelt gratitude for donors like you:

“Thank you, first and foremost. This is something that is going to hit home in one way or another, unfortunately, for many people in the long run. ALS impacts a lot more people than you than you realize, that’s what I found out going through this.”

Join Us in Building a Future of Hope

Together, we can honor the legacies of families like the Brauns and the Sigesmunds while bringing hope to countless others. You’ll be providing for those fighting ALS and funding vital research toward treatments and a cure to end ALS, building a lasting Future of Hope.

Thanks to your support in 2024, we…

• …broadened the scope of our Equipment Loan Program to include a wider array of items essential for improving quality of life and aiding in daily living.
• ...deepened our partnerships with national and local ALS organizations that share our mission. Through joint initiatives, events, and resource-sharing, we expanded access to care, funding for research, and support services. These efforts amplified our collective impact and ensured no family faces ALS alone.
• …expanded our team to support a growing caseload. This addition strengthens our capacity to deliver personalized, timely, and effective support to individuals living with ALS and their families.
• …and so much more. Join us in advancing our cause in 2025.

Together, We End ALS.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,

Julie M. Sharpe
President & CEO
ALS United Greater Chicago

P.S. Your tax-deductible gift will be matched dollar for dollar when received by December 31st! Please consider making a donation today!