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Officially founded in 2003, Compassionate Care ALS grew out of the work of the Gordon T. Heald ALS Fund, which remains an important program of Compassionate Care ALS. Gordon T. Heald was an active New England businessman who participated in and gave generously to local charities. In 1997 he was diagnosed with ALS. Ron Hoffman took on the role of his caregiver along with Gordon’s wife, Elizabeth. Before Gordon’s death, the idea of starting a fund for ALS families came to light. An announcement in Gordon’s obituary in October 1998 generated the seed money for the Gordon T. Heald ALS Fund. For five years Ron Hoffman oversaw the fund, helping ALS families in need purchase equipment such as home ramps, bath and shower chairs, and other expensive items rarely covered by insurance. He also offered personal support and guidance. In 2003 Hoffman founded Compassionate Care ALS, encompassing the Heald Fund and expanding its services to include families, caregivers, and health care professionals – in addition to ALS patients. | |
