“I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds strength to persevere and endure in spirit of overwhelming obstacles”
- Christopher Reeve
"I met Ross Mast at my very first ALS Support Group Meeting. My first experience feeling the awe of knowing that loving people would continue to help us thru this journey even after their battle is lost.
Even while their grief was fresh; Ross, Amy, Elisa and Cynthia are there to give advice, hugs and hold our hands. They stress the need for respite for the caregivers. Susan's fund was developed to ensure that quality care is available so caregivers can recharge.
It is important that this fund is replenished to ensure that it remains available until a cure is found." - Lori LaPointe
Even while their grief was fresh; Ross, Amy, Elisa and Cynthia are there to give advice, hugs and hold our hands. They stress the need for respite for the caregivers. Susan's fund was developed to ensure that quality care is available so caregivers can recharge.
It is important that this fund is replenished to ensure that it remains available until a cure is found." - Lori LaPointe
"I want to thank you again for the Schwan's delivery. Countless people have asked what they can do to help and it becomes more on my plate to try to think of something. Some people have taken the initiative to bring over a meal but with my husband limited in what he can eat and my kids being picky I have sadly had to throw food away. Schwan's is so wonderful in that I can choose something I know my family will eat. And I was so impressed with how respectful the driver was, promising to be available if I want him to come back but not hound me. Schwan's products were quality and took care of all the prep work. It provides so much peace to know I have a meal on hand that will help and not give me more to do. Thanks for all your help." - Anna
"I want to thank you again for the Schwan's delivery. Countless people have asked what they can do to help and it becomes more on my plate to try to think of something. Some people have taken the initiative to bring over a meal but with my husband limited in what he can eat and my kids being picky I have sadly had to throw food away. Schwan's is so wonderful in that I can choose something I know my family will eat. And I was so impressed with how respectful the driver was, promising to be available if I want him to come back but not hound me. Schwan's products were quality and took care of all the prep work. It provides so much peace to know I have a meal on hand that will help and not give me more to do. Thanks for all your help." - Anna
"The Susan Mast Foundation is an important member of our team as we navigate the challenges of ALS. Their dedication and compassion is evident: they’ve “been there” and know first-hand what it takes.
The programs and services of the Foundation have all been very welcome and needed resources for us. From the loan closet, the meALS program, the respite program, to the fun events - the people at the Foundation have been there for us.
Our deepest thanks to the Susan Mast Foundation, whose tireless efforts are helping so many, and for making sure we know “we are all in this together.” - Kari Basney
The programs and services of the Foundation have all been very welcome and needed resources for us. From the loan closet, the meALS program, the respite program, to the fun events - the people at the Foundation have been there for us.
Our deepest thanks to the Susan Mast Foundation, whose tireless efforts are helping so many, and for making sure we know “we are all in this together.” - Kari Basney
"My name is Jim Berry and I was officially diagnosed with ALS on May 13, 2016.
Before I was diagnosed, I was always an active person. In my younger years, I ran marathons, raced in triathlons and rowing regattas, skied several black diamond slopes and climbed several mountains. Never in my wildest dreams given my active life style did I ever think I would end in a wheel chair all day.
Now that I have ALS, I feel very fortunate to have met Julie Snelling and Ross Mast from the Susan Mast ALS Foundation. They have been a huge help with learning to live with ALS. Not only are they providing funds to help offset my personal care costs, they have provided invaluable insights and connections for my wife Barb and myself as we learn to live with ALS. We look forward to watch as they grow the Susan Mast ALS Foundation to help more ALS patients like myself in the future." - Jim Berry
Before I was diagnosed, I was always an active person. In my younger years, I ran marathons, raced in triathlons and rowing regattas, skied several black diamond slopes and climbed several mountains. Never in my wildest dreams given my active life style did I ever think I would end in a wheel chair all day.
Now that I have ALS, I feel very fortunate to have met Julie Snelling and Ross Mast from the Susan Mast ALS Foundation. They have been a huge help with learning to live with ALS. Not only are they providing funds to help offset my personal care costs, they have provided invaluable insights and connections for my wife Barb and myself as we learn to live with ALS. We look forward to watch as they grow the Susan Mast ALS Foundation to help more ALS patients like myself in the future." - Jim Berry
"The Susan Mast Foundation is doing great things for ALS patients and families in Southwest Michigan. Whenever I have needed something, whether it be a transport wheelchair or respite care to give my wife a chance to get out of the house, they have been there to help. I can't thank them enough for giving their time and energy to serve the ALS community." - Scott Matzka
"Hi! My name is Dawn and I was diagnosed with ALS on March 29, 2016. Pictured is my loving husband, Larry, for over 25 years and our sons, Brandon (age 15) and Tyler (age 9). They help me so much every day. A lot has changed physically since that day. A friend, who is a nurse, comes to help me once or twice a week with hygiene and getting dressed. Soon, Larry will be back to working 7 days a week and on call 24/7. We are trying to figure out what to do. I am very thankful for family, church family, friends, and Julie at Susan Mast ALS Foundation. She was the first person who I felt could relate to what I am going through. Julie has been so helpful with meals and helping to find equipment to borrow.
My theme verse: Proverbs 3: 5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your path straight." - Dawn Richardson
My theme verse: Proverbs 3: 5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your path straight." - Dawn Richardson
A little bit about our family: Jennie is a 38 year old mother of four kids aged 18, 15, 8, and 6. We live on her grandparent's farm in Athens, MI. She began to notice symptoms in August of 2016 and was diagnosed with ALS in January 2017. This disease has changed our lives in a lot of ways as Jennie is now wheelchair bound and requires around the clock care. We didn't have a lot of time to react as this caught us by surprise and progressed quickly. We soon realized that there were a lot of things we would need help with and equipment that would make life easier for Jennie. The Susan Mast Foundation has loaned a lot of much needed equipment. We would not have been able to acquire or afford to buy all of this ourselves. The Foundation has provided lifts, slings, chairs, mattress, food, respite funds, and other helpful items. Julie has been so responsive in making sure we have what we need. The Susan Mast Foundation has truly been a blessing during this difficult time. Thank You!
For some taking a shower is the way to go but for me it is relaxing in the tub. It is good for the body and soul.
The tub chair purchased by the Susan Mast ALS Foundation gives me the ability to get in and out of the tub independently and puts a smile on my face everyday. I can't thank Susan Mast Foundation enough , this is an amazing group of caring people. - Karen
The tub chair purchased by the Susan Mast ALS Foundation gives me the ability to get in and out of the tub independently and puts a smile on my face everyday. I can't thank Susan Mast Foundation enough , this is an amazing group of caring people. - Karen
"For me, it was hard to first accept assistance from friends, family and foundations like yours. However, I'm so glad I did and was able to meet so many wonderful caring individuals with such huge hearts! Keep up the good work!" Bob