How is This Going to Help Them? | Ep. #67

Summary: In Ep. 67, In this story, what began as a volunteer opportunity to help someone with ALS and their family turned into a friendly connection, one that may have never happened otherwise. Meet Faith Strautmann and Robert Meyer. Inspired by several ALS families she had volunteered with throughout high school, Faith Strautmann reached out and became involved with the ALS Association St. Louis Regional Chapter, taking on additional volunteer opportunities over the next few years. She became actively involved  with the chapter’s events like the Walk to Defeat ALS®, and continued to work closely with the ALS community. In the beginning of January, the chapter’s volunteer coordinator approached her about a new opportunity to volunteer with a person living with ALS near her home, and she knew it was for her.  Robert “Bob” Meyer is just 54 and was diagnosed with Familial ALS in April 2019. “My diagnosis came after 4 MRI’s, two nerve conduction tests, extensive blood work, and a conversation with my doctor,” he said. Knowing that he was starting to need a little help around the house, Bob reached out to his care services coordinator at his local chapter of The ALS Association for more information. The chapter’s volunteer coordinator explained she could arrange for a volunteer to help with some household chores: maybe some light housekeeping, making a cake, reading a book, or going for an outing. Bob agreed and was put in contact with Faith.