News & Stories
Sunny Side Feature: Creative Connections Through Crafting
When a loved one has ALS, finding ways to connect as a family can be both meaningful and comforting. Simple, hands-on activities can open the door for conversation, creativity, and shared experiences, especially for children navigating the changes that come with an ALS diagnosis in the family.
This decoupage project was shared with us by Susan Blaha, a local ALS warrior and advocate. Susan has long used creativity as a way to bring people together, and this craft is a simple way to make something special with family and friends.
DIY Decoupage Craft
What You’ll Need:
- A glass container or vase (a dollar store find works great)
- Colorful tissue paper or printed napkins
- Mod Podge
- A paintbrush
How to Make It:
- Tear the tissue paper into small, uneven pieces—no need for perfection.
- Brush a layer of Mod Podge onto the glass surface.
- Press the tissue pieces onto the glass, overlapping and arranging them randomly.
- Let it dry completely.
- Seal the entire project with another coat of Mod Podge for durability.
This simple craft can become a pencil holder, paperweight, or a pot for a small plant—a tangible reminder of time spent together.
Supporting Kids Impacted by ALS
Creative activities like this can be a great way to engage children and help them process their emotions. If you’re looking for additional ways to support a child affected by ALS, ALS United Greater Chicago offers resources designed specifically for youth. Visit our Youth Resources page to explore tools and programs that can help.
We’re also looking for families to be part of Sunny Side Features—a space to share personal stories, highlight how ALS youth resources have made a difference, and inspire others in our community. If you’d like to be featured, contact Brianna Neal, MSW, LSW, at brianna@alsunitedchicago.org. We’d love to hear your story.