Our team proudly honours the memory of Kathleen Corkum, who passed away at age 59 after an 18-month battle with ALS on December 31, 2020. Kathleen received her diagnosis on June 20, 2019—her 58th birthday—following an eight-day stay at Sunnybrook Hospital. Genetic testing later revealed she carried the C9orf72 mutation, confirming her case as familial ALS. ALS had already touched Kathleen’s family: she lost an aunt to the disease, and her father—though never officially diagnosed—passed away with similar symptoms. Her daughter Jillian has since learned that she, too, carries the C9orf72 mutation. As we fundraise, we are committed to raising awareness about familial ALS and its devastating impact on families.

Though small in stature, Kathleen’s strength was immense. She was known for her fierce determination and genuinely kind heart. Kathleen could brighten any room with her infectious smile and sharp sense of humour. Growing up, her father affectionately called her his “little ray of sunshine,” a nod to her radiant blonde hair and uplifting spirit. Yet, she was never one to back down from a challenge, especially when it came to standing up for family and loved ones.

Kathleen was the quintessential middle child among seven siblings. She married her soulmate at just 22 and together they raised two children—a son and a daughter. Sadly, she lost her beloved husband to cancer in 2014.

Kathleen cherished her role as Granny to two beautiful grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. She never missed a chance to cheer on her granddaughter’s latest dance move or join her grandson for a game of hockey—despite being legally blind. Deeply loved by her nieces, nephews, and a true friend to many, Kathleen’s warmth touched everyone around her. Although ALS took much from her in a short time, she never lost hope or her fighting spirit. In her honour, we vow to continue the fight for a cure, carrying forward the determination and hope that defined Kathleen’s life.

Your support will help to:

• Further scientific progress by investing in the ALS Canada Research Program, which funds promising ALS research. The ALS Canada Research Program is the only national dedicated source of funding for ALS research across Canada. This program provides peer-reviewed grants to researchers whose work has the greatest potential to advance the field of ALS. There’s been more progress made in ALS research in the last five years than over the last century – we need to keep building on this momentum. 
• Create a better day-to-day reality for people and families living with ALS by providing community-based services throughout Ontario – this includes home visits and support groups – as well as necessary medical equipment like hospital beds, wheelchairs, stairlifts, and other items that increase safety in the home, at no cost to those who need them.

Join our team in making a difference. Please consider donating to our team fundraising page as we work toward a world free of ALS.

United, we are stronger together!