Support Chris In His Battle With ALS

We are reaching out to you today on behalf of our friend Chris Grove and his family. We are launching this GoFundMe campaign to support Chris in his courageous battle against ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) aka Lou Gehrig's Disease. ALS is a debilitating neurological disease that affects the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles, gradually leading to paralysis. With your support, we can help Chris and his family navigate the challenges of this devastating condition and bring hope and comfort to their life.

Chris retired from the St Charles, IL Police Department at the end of 2021 to start the next chapter in his life. His goal was to live a long and enjoyable retirement in Lasalle, IL. He planned on taking care of his mother and watching his many nephews and nieces grow up. Also, Chris wanted to spend as much time on his beloved pontoon boat, with family and friends, traveling up and down the Illinois River. Chris is a big White Sox, Jimmy Buffet, and Big Elvis fan and likes spending time visiting with friends at the South Shore Boat Club while laughing and downing some Miller Lites.

Chris was a police officer for 25 years and helped protect and serve his town with the utmost dignity. First responders have an incredibly hard time asking for help with their own problems. When Chris started having ALS symptoms and was diagnosed earlier this year, it was hard for him to reach out for help. Chris finally told his friends about his illness. Since that time, he has seen how much his friends care about him and want to help him in his battle. He understands that this disease requires the help of many. Chris’ family, his mother Gerry, his brother and sister, Jeff and Jenny, have been there for him through this journey and will continue to be there. Chris has come to realize that he will need additional help.

To help compensate for the ever-increasing lack of mobility, Chris needs a wheelchair-converted van and to modify his house so everyday tasks we take for granted are manageable. There are many direct costs related to ALS, including (but not limited to) medical testing, copays, medications, and at-home care. Also, there are the indirect costs: travel expenses, home renovations, loss of income due to caregiving, and more. It is estimated that on average it can cost a patient with ALS $100,000.00 to $200,000.00 out of pocket.

Please help us in supporting Chris by donating any amount you can. We would be grateful if you could share this post with others.