HensonFuerst Proud to Support the ALS Association

ALS is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), a neurologic disorder that causes the degeneration of nerves that control voluntary muscle movement. It is a vicious disease that slowly erodes a person’s ability to function.

HensonFuerst Attorneys has long been a proud supporter of the mission of the Jim “Catfish” Hunter chapter of the ALS Association. In July, our firm sponsored the 6th Annual Outreach Professionals Conference for people who run ALS support groups across the state.

In the latest issue of The Catfish Care Spotlight, the ALS Association’s care services publication, two of the attendees wrote about their experience. They are so eloquent that we wanted to share their thoughts with you:

Our Experience at the Outreach Professionals Conference

By Roz MacGuire and Annette Beam, Outreach Professionals for the Unifour Resource and Caregiver Support Groups

The Facilitator’s Conference held on July 30 was an answer to so many issues/questions for those of us working with PALS and CALS through our support groups across the state. The presentation on Respiratory Issues and ALS by Theresa Johnston-Crews, RN and Connie Paladenach, RT was very well thought out. Even a non-medical person (like me) could grasp the respiratory teaching and the hands-on equipment demonstration was very helpful. It was a relief to hear others ask questions that have plagued my mind for months. These ladies really made us feel like part of the WFUBH ALS Team!

The problem solving segment of the conference was also critical in helping us identify and handle some key issues around helping those living with ALS.

Another great advantage of this meeting was the opportunity to meet all the new chapter staff, get updated on fund raising successes (yea!!) and meet with the other Outreach Professionals. Meeting a Board member, Ed Miles, showed us the deep commitment of this important group of ALS activists. I am personally so grateful to be able to put a face to a name and have great contacts “in all the right places”!

Each year at the Conference, we take time to reflect on the lives of PALS who passed away over the last year. It is always sobering. It’s hard to believe that our little Unifour group lost 4 members. Obviously, all the Outreach Professionals have been as deeply connected to their patients as have we.

Thanks again to HensonFuerst. We were delighted to be given time to relax and discuss our concerns with others who share a loving commitment to this special group of people.

We are thrilled to support this amazing organization.