Welcome to the ALS Canada blog where you’ll find a collection of articles and updates on ALS-related topics. We strive to develop content that our community will find valuable and deliver up-to-date information about ALS research, community-based support, and advocacy initiatives. We also provide Ontario fundraising event updates and share personal stories about people and families living with ALS in Ontario to keep our community connected. For content in French, please refer to the “Français” category in the main menu.
Ice Bucket Challenge continues to drive research discovery by providing new insights into ALS
ALS Canada-Brain Canada funded research delays the onset of ALS symptoms in mice models
April 21, 2020
Within the brain, neurons are constantly communicating with each other. These communications can be inhibitory or excitatory, essentially like a stop or go signal. For our brains to function properly we need to have a balance between these two signals.... Read More
Posted in: Research
Together we are stronger: The ALS community takes to Ottawa
April 13, 2020
In early March, members of the ALS community joined ALS Canada in Ottawa for two days of advocacy training and meetings with politicians and other government officials. From people living with ALS and their caregivers and family members to researchers,... Read More
Posted in: Advocacy
Access to Therapies: Radicava (edaravone) Update
April 3, 2020
Updated March 10, 2021 Updated October 5, 2020 Updated May 28, 2020 Updated May 19, 2022 Updated January 19, 2023 Originally posted October 22, 2019 In October 2018, Health Canada approved Radicava (edaravone) for use in Canada. As edaravone... Read More
Posted in: Advocacy
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COVID-19 Update: A message from our CEO
March 27, 2020
Dear ALS Community, ALS doesn’t stop. Neither will we. We understand what a challenging time this may be for people affected by ALS. The COVID-19 pandemic amplifies the many unknowns and the concerns that come with the realities of the... Read More
Luckiest of the unlucky: keeping a positive mindset in the face of ALS
February 21, 2020
Norman MacIsaac says he’s the “luckiest of the unlucky.” His legs, arms and hands are failing him, his voice is weak, and his speech is slow and laboured, but he refuses to let ALS stifle his positivity. Norm has been... Read More
Posted in: Stories
Can an animal model provide new insights into the formation of stress granules?
February 19, 2020
Alicia Dubinski may have inherited both her love for science and studying a neurodegenerative disease from her mother, a neuroscientist at the University of Toronto. When Dubinski was still a graduate student at the University of Waterloo, she met Dr.... Read More
Posted in: Research