The ALS Association – Wisconsin Chapter would like to thank our key note speaker, Dr. Zachary Simmons, Professor of Neurology at Penn State University and Director of the Neuromuscular Program and Certified ALS Center at Penn State/Hershey Medical Center, for an interesting and thought provoking presentation on his research on Quality of Life and ALS.

Thank you to Dr. Paul Barkhaus, Professor of Neurology with the Medical College of Wisconsin, ALS Specialist and Medical Director of the Certified ALS Center at Froedtert/Medical College of Wisconsin and ALS Clinic at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. Dr. Barkhaus presented and answered questions on current and potential research opportunities. The Chapter greatly appreciates Dr. Barkhaus’ commitment and involvement with the planning of this important annual event.

Thank you to Keith Sorenson of the Paralyzed Veterans of America who presented on the 2008 change in Veteran’s Benefits and how they affect our Chapter members. Keith has been instrumental in getting the word out and assisting our Chapter members who are veterans in obtaining the benefits they are eligible for.

Thank you to Jane Kowalsky, MSW and Robin Stanczyk, RN both members of The ALS Association – WI Chapter Patient Services Team for leading a panel of Chapter members and families who shared their personal experiences of Living with ALS. A huge thank you to these individuals who presented as part of the family panel: Stuart and Mary Stultz with their sons Tim and Kevin and daughter Susan Schneider, Dolores Grunke and Mary and Mike Bansemar. Their candid and open sharing provided a wonderful opportunity for attendees to learn from those who are facing some of the same challenges.

This event could not happen without the help of our wonderful volunteers: Dave and Marcia Trinastic, Jim and Janet Gauger, Roseanne and Randy Young, Melinda Reichert, Sharon Plucinski, and Jean Kowalsky.

The Chapter wishes to recognize all of the exhibitors from community businesses and organizations who provided resources and information during the event:

• Ability-Independence
• Adaptive Technology Resources, Inc.
• ARW Photography, LLC
• BILD – Bridgeway Independent Living Designs, LLC
• ALS Clinic Team Members from Certified ALS Clinic at Froedtert/Medical College of Wisconsin
• Dynavox Mayer Johnson
• Elm Grove Massage
• Family Caregiver Support Network/Interfaith Older Adult Programs
• Heartland Home Health Care and Hospice
• Home Care Medical, Inc.
• Home Instead Senior Care
• Knueppel Healthcare, Inc.
• Locker’s Florist
• MobilityWorks
• Paralyzed Veterans of America
• Philips Respironics
• ResCare Home Care
• Seasons Hospice
• Synergy Home Care
• VITAS Innovative Hospice Care
• Walgreens Infusion and Respiratory Services

The 2011 ALS Patient Care and Research Symposium will be held on Saturday, May 7, 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – Milwaukee Wauwatosa. Information will be sent by mail and posted on the Chapter website. If you would like to volunteer to help in planning the symposium or helping during the event, please contact Lori Banker-Horner at 414-817-1541 or lori@alsawi.org