Help Todd Laird & Family Fight His Battle With ALS

Todd Laird and his wife, Ali, are currently facing the toughest battle of their lives. At the end of 2024, Todd was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Since Todd’s symptoms first appeared, the disease has quickly progressed, resulting in significant loss of mobility and speaking. As ALS continues to take over, Todd will become bedridden and will ultimately require a feeding tube as his ability to swallow deteriorates. This is a heart-wrenching disease with no cure, as Todd’s mind will still be intact while he continues to lose control of his body.

Todd is married to Ali Laird (maiden name: Friend) and is a loving father of two young kids, ages 6 and 9. Right now, Todd is trying to enjoy as much time as he can with his family. Due to his battle with ALS, he is discovering things he can no longer do or things he may be doing for the last time. Todd is an avid sports fan and can always be found rooting for or criticizing his hometown teams. He also grew up an elite swimmer with several IL state records, countless individual state championships, and multiple national age group top 16 times. Todd is a loving and caring human being who has always been a tremendous friend to all those in his life.

In May of 2010, Todd joined the “Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair” (I-CAR) organization where he continues to work today. Over the past 14+ years, Todd has held several positions, currently serving as the Manager of Business Operations. During this time, he has developed key friendships across the organization and within the industry he serves. He is widely respected for his kindness and willingness to support others and is well known by many in the Collision Repair Industry as a strong advocate for safe and quality vehicle repair.

Todd, Ali, and family now need our support as the costs of his care are starting to add up. Many of the expenses are not covered by insurance. Some of the costs include modifying their home to accommodate his limited mobility by building out a bedroom and handicap-accessible bathroom on the main floor. They also have to invest in a hospital bed and a wheelchair-accessible van. In addition to these large expenses, there are ongoing medical bills, additional childcare coverage and associated costs, needs for part-time and eventual full-time medical support, and equipment that will be required as his condition continues to deteriorate.

We are rallying together to support Todd Laird and his family as they fight the challenges and limitations imposed by ALS. One of the greatest ways to help support the Laird family is to try and relieve some of the financial burdens and stresses brought on by this disease.

Todd has been resilient and strong throughout this tragic process. He has focused on the most important things in life and is enjoying his limited time with his wife and children. His positivity and commitment to ensuring his family is well prepared once his time has come is a testament to his strength and love for his family.

Any donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in helping them afford the care and equipment they need. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on Todd and his family’s quality of life for the future.

Thank you for your generosity and support.