Fundraiser for Brian Thiessen fighting ALS

As some of you already know, my husband Brian Thiessen has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. This has been one of the scariest moments we have ever faced. The day we found out about this unimaginable diagnosis was one of the worst days of our lives. We are turning to our family, friends, and those who know Brian or may have heard about his story. We are creating a GoFundMe to ask for help and support as we go through this journey.

Brian is a loving husband, an amazing uncle, and a magnificent friend. To have Brian as a friend, you’re one of the lucky ones. He has been a blessing to everyone who knows him. He is so easygoing, loving, compassionate and selfless to everyone he has ever met. He has always put everyone's needs before his own. He is always willing to go out of his way for those who truly need it. And is one of the biggest baseball and music fans you will ever meet.

This GoFundMe is being managed by his loving wife, Doris Thiessen. Doris has been caring for Brian since his diagnosis on her own while working part-time to help with the costs of Brian's medical needs. But now, since things have progressed, there have been more expenses, and Doris really needs some help.

ALS is a terminal disease that attacks and weakens your nervous system and causes muscle loss, eventually leaving the body paralyzed. Affecting basic life tasks like walking, speaking, eating, and over time swallowing and eventually breathing.

Brian has been declining in a matter of months. His disease has progressed and has now taken control of his life. Brian can no longer walk, talk, feed himself or do daily tasks like dressing, bathing, or brushing his teeth. He relies on his wife and sometimes family and friends to feed him and perform other daily tasks.

ALS’ average life expectancy is 2-5 years from the time of diagnosis. ALS is an extremely expensive disease to treat. Estimates range as high as $100,000-$200,000 per year.

To date, there is no cure for this life-threatening disease, only a few treatment options exist. So, the only thing we could do was to reach out and ask for help.

The donations would help with the medical bills, medications, treatments, infusions, physical therapy, medical equipment, tools to help Brian speak and communicate, and mainly to hire a dedicated caretaker to help improve his day-to-day life. Based on the quotes we received, the costs for a caretaker start at $28.00 per hour, which insurance does not cover.

At this time, we ask for your help in any way you can, and no amount is too small. Each donation is truly appreciated and will help us fight for Brian’s comfort and happiness.

Please share this GoFundMe link to spread awareness and help towards the money we need for Brian.

We thank you from the bottom of Our Hearts.