This month, we honor some of our many dedicated volunteers. Today, we’re learning more about Liz Fassler. Liz is a Veteran living with ALS who serves on the Veterans Team at I AM ALS. Learn more about Liz below!
In what roles do you currently volunteer at I AM ALS? (Please include all roles, if you have multiple!)
I am an active member of the Veterans team. We distribute coins to organizations that have gone above and beyond in supporting veterans with ALS. We partner with other national organizations on legislation and have created a document that assists newly diagnosed veterans with ALS regarding the benefits and care they can receive. I also attend the Scribes of Strength meetings and have contributed to their blog. I have been working with a mentee through the I Am ALS mentorship program and serve as a mentor to other veterans during our veterans’ meet-up through I Am ALS. I was the original member of the comedy crew, and I am always willing to help when asked by the I Am ALS staff for one-off tasks. My favorite opportunity to volunteer is with the Tim Lowery Panels. As a former educator, I enjoy the opportunity to continue “teaching” in this capacity.
How has volunteering with I AM ALS changed your life or the life of your family?
Since diagnosis, I have been active regionally with ALS advocacy, but I wanted to meet like-minded advocates from across the country. I retired from teaching special education in January 2023, and with my children grown and out of the house, I had time to fill. I was in search of something that would give me continued purpose and a way to continue serving others.
Why did you initially decide to get involved with I AM ALS as a volunteer?
I initially decided to volunteer with I Am ALS to connect with the areas of advocacy that interested me most. I Am ALS offers many different avenues for volunteering. Their opportunities have grown, and with that, so have I. The advocacy connections I have made at I Am ALS have provided me with additional resources to impact our community.
What would you tell others who are facing similar circumstances about what they could gain by volunteering with I AM ALS?
It is very easy to sign up. You are welcome to simply join the support groups or grow in your volunteerism or advocacy. You are in control of your journey at I Am ALS. We brighten each other’s days when we are seen, appreciated, and valued. This is part of the fabric of volunteering with I Am ALS.
Any other words of advice you’d like to share?
This may sound harsh, but if you have ALS (or lost someone to ALS) and are not busy living, you are spending more of the time you have left with grieving/dying. Why not spend it with like-minded people on the same journey?