Donation protected
In July of 2024, my big brother and best friend, Darrell, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a relentless neurodegenerative disease that, in just one year, has robbed my brother of his ability to walk, lift his head, use his arms, and even speak.
Sadly, there is no cure.
How Can I Help?
Caregiving has become increasingly more difficult for Darrell’s wife, Margo, to accomplish after she left her job to provide Darrell the greatest love and care. The disease has progressed beyond their ability to manage on their own. Relief is needed now.
Where Does the Money Go?
The proceeds collected here will be used to hire a home caregiver to support Darrell and Margo on a part-time basis.
For perspective, the cost of a half-time caregiver runs $6,000 per month. An average ALS patient’s life expectancy is 2-5 years. The dollars add up quickly. Hitting our short-term goal will cover caregiving costs for the remainder of 2025. Help beyond that would be a blessing.
What Your Support Helps Provide:
- Mobility & Transfer Support: Assistance with physical transfers (wheelchair & bed) safely using a Hoyer lift and reducing discomfort through frequent repositioning.
- Personal Care & Hygiene: From bathing and dressing to oral care and toileting, these deeply personal tasks require skilled, compassionate support as independence declines.
- Medical & Respiratory: Help dispensing medications, managing feedings through a G-tube, supporting breathing function with specialized equipment, which are all essential for maintaining quality of life each day.
- Physical Therapy: Ongoing assistance to help preserve mobility and strength for as long as possible.
Spread the Word
For those of you who know Darrell, his determination to retain some degree of independence throughout his battle with ALS should come as no surprise. He’s fiercely stubborn. And S-M-R-T! (a favorite Homer Simpson quote). The fact that I’m here now, with his permission, asking for your support speaks volumes to how much it’s needed.
You also know that Darrell’s love and generosity toward others are immeasurable. Please cast your net as wide as his. The further we share, the more likely Darrell will get the end-of-life care he deserves.
Big Hugs,
Lacey
aka “Sis”
Learn more about ALS at ALS North West
Co-organizers (4)
Lacey Fuhriman Hughes
Organizer
Portland, OR
Darrell Fuhriman
Beneficiary
Margo DeBeir
Co-organizer
Sienna Dory-Fuhriman
Co-organizer