Monika Treleaven, one of the hosts of the June 28 progressive dinner that benefited the ALS Society, receives a certificate of appreciation from organizer Wanda VanTassel. Contributed photo
Daughter of ALS victim intent on raising awareness and funds
Jack Morrell of Brighton was 70 when he was diagnosed with ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. His family was told he would increasingly have problems with moving, swallowing and speaking. His condition, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, would eventually lead to his losing the ability to breathe on his own.
“There was no possibility of recovery. For our family the question was ‘How can we help improve his quality of life?’ says his daughter, Wanda VanTassel. “And how can we pay for it?”
VanTassel says that family and friends rallied around her father. Her sister, Shirley Milbury moved in with her dad and mom when he reached the point that he needed a tracheotomy and a feeding tube. And a benefit show was staged to help purchase the lift chair that he required.
The ALS Society provided a lifeline to her family, says VanTassel. “I was on the phone to them whenever there was any change in his condition.
When his disease progressed to the point that he needed a hospital bed and suction machines, the ALS Society came from Halifax and delivered the equipment to his home. “And they said, ‘There’s no charge. We’re just here to help out.’”
Five years after her father’s death, Wanda VanTassel is educating people about ALS, and raising funds for the society through a series of events including a progressive dinner, a scrabble tournament and a walk.
The June 20 progressive dinner in Digby was a four-course indulgence hosted by Monica and Richard Treleaven, Dianne Axent, Janet Smith and Terry Gilbert. Attended by 28 people, the dinner raised $632.
On July 25 there will be a Scrabble tournament. “It will be at Digby Curling Centre and there will be a $10 entry fee,” VanTassel said.
Those two fundraisers are brand new this year, which is the fifth year for the Digby Walk for ALS, which takes place on Sept. 13. Nationwide, the walk last year raised more than $2 million in 70 communities.
VanTassel said that in addition to providing direct support to ALS families, the ALS Society funds research towards a cure for the disease.
Those interested in participating in the ALS Scrabble tournament on July 25 or the ALS walk on September 13 can contact Wanda VanTassel at 245-4388.
