Our Monthly Support Group Program
Please see schedule for your local support group at the bottom of this page

ALS affects the entire family with changes that can be challenging, and stressful. Talking about it sometimes helps, as does having useful information on what to expect and on managing symptoms. The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter's monthly support and resource group is an essential tool in helping people with ALS and their caregivers, families and friends live with ALS.

Led by professionals, support groups provide opportunities for group members to share their personal experiences and to learn more about living with ALS. They learn they are not alone nor without help or hope. Meetings are free and open to all people with ALS and concerned others regardless of where treated. They often offer speakers on relevant topics and are designed to share information as well as strategies for preserving the independence and quality of life of both people living with ALS and their caregivers.

Tip from a longtime support group member:
“If you decide to come to an ALS Support Group, come at lease three times to figure out if it is right for you. The first time can be scary not knowing what you will see or hear. The second time, you feel more comfortable and start taking in more information. By the third time, you stop seeing people with ALS and just see people who are your friends and supporters.” ... Janis White, Portland, Oregon

What is an ALS Support Group?

IT IS. . .sharing helpful hints in dealing with doctors, employers, friends, and relatives.
IT IS. . . sharing practical advice on day-to-day living with ALS.
IT IS. . . facilitators and participants who have genuine concern for others.
IT IS. . . a safe place to express oneself.
IT IS. . . families who just found out “they” have ALS and who want to know more.
IT IS. . . guest speakers, current research, diets, books, therapies and beliefs.
IT IS. . . individuals who share experiences about participating in clinical trials.
IT IS. . . sometimes about the tremendous stress put on relationships and families.
IT IS. . . a place where you can reach out and help others by sharing your experience.
IT IS. . . where people who know what it is to live with ALS help those that don't.
IT IS. . . about hope and helping.
IT IS NOT. . . group therapy. There is no psychological jargon or probing into one's personal life. You don't have to talk if you don't want to.
IT IS NOT. . . going to enable you or your loved ones to breeze through the devastating experience of living with ALS. It will provide help and support.

Want to request a topic for discussion or presentation?
Get in touch with your regional services coordinator or
contact Lance Christian,LMSW, Executive Director, at 503-238-5559 ext 1 or LanceChristian@alsa-or.org.