There’s Still Time to Join the ALS Community at the ALS Walk for Life
The forecast for Saturday’s ALS Walk for Life is abundant sunshine with widespread warmth. And the weather is expected to be nice too!
Let’s thank ABC7 meteorologist Phil Schwarz for the good weather. Phil will be back as co-host of the Opening Ceremony for the 14th year.
Over 125 teams of friends and family have already registered for this Saturday’s ALS Walk for Life. They are looking forward to honoring or remembering a loved one – while reconnecting with friends at historic Soldier Field.
For many, getting together as a community at Saturday’s ALS Walk for Life will be cathartic – truly a breath of fresh air, in more ways than one.
Join us this Saturday at Soldier Field or do your own remote Walk for Life.
Here’s the schedule for Saturday:
- 10:30am: Opening Ceremony
- 10:45am: Presentation of the ALS Courage Award to former Chicago Bears player Steve McMichael
- 11:00am: Walk route opens
- 12:30pm: Awards ceremony to recognize teams who have participated for 10+ years
ALS Learning Series – Webinars
The next two webinars in our ALS Learning Series will cover communication technology and family planning.
The webinars are free. Registration is open.
Designing a Toolbox for Continuous Communication Using Your Existing Technology
Speakers: Janet Bischof-Rosario, OTR/L, and Anne Marie Doyle, MA, CCC-SLP, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Thursday, September 30
12:00pm – 1:00pm CT
As ALS can affect speech and the ability to handle standard communication devices, this webinar will identify solutions for continuing to use smart phones, tablets, and computers.
Upon completion of this webinar, you will be able to:
- describe the differences between voice and message banking, as well as the equipment needed to complete these tasks
- identify low tech and mid tech methods for communication, such as paper-based systems, voice amplification equipment, and communication apps to use on-the-go
- learn about accessibility options to facilitate use of mid-tech devices with decreased strength in arms and hands
- examine communication software for computer-based devices which provide voice output, along with access to these devices via head movement and eye gaze
Family Planning and ALS with speaker Lisa M. Kinsley, MS, CGC, Northwestern
Thursday, October 7
12:00pm – 1:00pm CT
Genetic testing for a familial ALS gene may have implications for those who are considering whether or not to start a family.
This webinar will review the family planning options available to individuals who are interested in reducing the risk of passing on a genetic disorder.
We’ll review what is involved in each option as well as some of the biological, ethical and financial considerations that play a role in this important decision.