When a life-changing diagnosis like ALS strikes, it can feel like the world has suddenly shrunk—once-simple tasks become overwhelming, and dreams of an active life seem to slip away. But for those in Arizona facing this relentless disease, ALS Arizona stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that life continues to be lived fully, vibrantly, and with dignity.
At the heart of ALS Arizona’s mission is a simple but profound goal: to help individuals with ALS embrace life to the fullest while supporting advancements in care and treatment. Whether through recreational therapy, critical equipment support, or direct community outreach, the organization is committed to improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
But the fight against ALS cannot be tackled alone. That’s why ALS Arizona’s collaboration with Target ALS, a research-driven organization focused on accelerating new therapeutics, is so vital. Together, they form a powerful partnership—one that bridges the gap between scientific advancements and real-life support for ALS patients and their families.
Beyond the Diagnosis: A Life Worth Living
ALS Arizona’s work extends far beyond clinical care. While medical teams focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression, ALS Arizona ensures that patients continue to experience joy, adventure, and connection. From adaptive skiing and horseback riding to golfing and white-water rafting, the organization creates opportunities for individuals to participate in activities they once loved—on their own terms.
“Our goal is to help people focus on the good, the things they want to do, and the people they want to be around,” explains Taryn Norley, President & CEO of ALS Arizona. “It’s about staying independent, staying in your home, staying active. Just because ALS changes your body, it doesn’t mean you stop living.”
This approach was inspired by a simple request from a caregiver: “If I could get my husband to golf one more time, I think it would make all the difference.” That moment sparked an entire movement within ALS Arizona, leading to the development of life-enhancing experiences for patients who want to continue pursuing their passions.
But beyond recreation, the organization also provides critical practical support, including home visits where experts assess living spaces to remove obstacles, install equipment, and ensure that homes remain safe and functional as the disease progresses. Their equipment loan closet—stocked with power wheelchairs, Hoyer lifts, and other essentials—has become a game-changer for families facing the high costs and logistical challenges of ALS care. The ALS Arizona team also works closely with ALS clinical teams, offering a multidisciplinary approach for families dealing with a diagnosis and disease progression.
A Network of Support: From Caregivers to Clinics
ALS doesn’t just affect individuals—it impacts entire families. That’s why ALS Arizona extends its services beyond patients, offering dedicated support groups for caregivers and children.
One particularly powerful initiative is the organization’s family retreat weekends, held at beautiful resorts in Scottsdale. These staycations allow families to connect, relax, and form meaningful relationships with others who understand their journey. From s’mores nights to poolside bonding, these retreats remind families that they are not alone.
“We want to help the couples, the children, the caregivers,” says Taryn. “Because when you become a caregiver, it can feel isolating. Our programs provide not just support, but real connections and moments of joy.”
The Power of Partnership: ALS Arizona & Target ALS
While ALS Arizona focuses on improving day-to-day life, Target ALS is dedicated to advancing research and developing new therapeutics that could significantly impact disease progression and symptom management. The partnership between these two organizations is a perfect synergy, ensuring that patient support and scientific progress go hand in hand.
By working closely with neurologists, clinic teams, and researchers, ALS Arizona serves as a critical bridge between patients and science. This collaboration has opened doors for clinical trials, increased awareness about ongoing research, and provided patients with access to groundbreaking advancements.
Taryn recalls a powerful moment at a research event:
“I asked a few young researchers, ‘Have you ever met anyone with ALS?’ They said no—but they wanted to. That was a turning point. When scientists meet the people they’re working so hard to help, it becomes personal. It sparks new ideas, new urgency. That’s why this partnership matters.”
The Road Ahead: Progress, Innovation, and Change
Looking to the future, ALS Arizona envisions a world where ALS is diagnosed faster and treated more effectively, with expanded access to therapies and resources.
Their goals include:
- More accessible respiratory support – Providing BiPAP machines and suction devices immediately upon diagnosis
- Expanded transportation solutions – Addressing the sometimes $800-per-trip cost of getting rural patients to clinics
- A mobile ALS clinic – Bringing care directly to underserved communities
- A caregiver retreat program – Giving caregivers the rest, support, and appreciation they deserve
And, of course, they hope for continued breakthroughs in research—the kind that Target ALS is working tirelessly to achieve.
“We all have a role,” says Taryn. “We focus on quality of life, they focus on the science, and together we ensure that ALS patients receive the best care, resources, and support possible. That’s why this partnership is so important.”
Join the Movement
ALS Arizona and Target ALS are proving that collaboration can change lives. Whether you’re a researcher, a donor, a volunteer, or someone looking for support, there’s a place for you in this journey to a world where Everyone Lives.
Learn more about how you can get involved, donate, or connect with support services by visiting https://alsaz.org. Together, we can make a difference—one life, one breakthrough, and one partnership at a time.
Support the Global ALS Research Community
Your support helps us provide essential tools to researchers around the world, ensuring that critical discoveries are within reach for all. Join us in empowering the global ALS research community and driving progress toward effective treatments. Make a difference today—every donation brings us one step closer to a world where Everyone Lives. You can also participate in research by visiting the Target ALS site.
