Page 63 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2024 - Online Magazine
P. 63

EXCEPTIONAL SENIORS










         organizing various events. Through these initiatives,   individual can have in the lives of many. Her story is a
         the group raises crucial funds for research, patient   poignant reminder that, while pain, loss, and illness can
         support services, and advocacy. Charlie believes that   be overwhelming, it can also be a catalyst for change
         raising awareness about ALS is just as important as   and a source of strength.
         providing immediate support to those affected. By
         assisting with and participating in the fundraising   In a world that can often isolate, Charlie Olson shines
         events, she not only contributes to the fight against ALS   brightly, offering hope and support to those who need
         but also educates the community about the realities of   it most. Through her tireless work with the West Texas
         the disease.                                         ALS Support Group, she honors her husband’s legacy
                                                              while creating a lasting impact in her community.
         Three highlights of the group’s fundraising efforts   As she navigates her own journey of healing, Charlie
         are the annual ALS Awareness Walk, the annual Golf   exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the
         Tournament, and the annual Gala, where community     transformative power of compassion.
         members come together to raise funds, support those
         affected by ALS and honor the lives of those whom    As we look to the future, Charlie’s commitment to the
         the group has lost. Charlie works tirelessly alongside   West Texas ALS Group, supporting others facing ALS,
         other board members to coordinate these events,      and her dedication to fostering community connections
         reaching out to local businesses for sponsorships and   will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift many.
         gathering volunteers to ensure its success. These events   Her journey is a powerful reminder that, in the face of
         serve as both fundraising opportunities and a way to   adversity, love and support can light the way forward
         build community spirit, drawing families and friends   like a shining star.
         together in a show of support.

         Charlie’s dedication to helping others extends
         beyond her work with the ALS support group. She is
         also actively involved with Lake Ridge Chapel and
         Memorial Designers, where her husband’s services
         were held. As a member of the Ladies and Men of
         Lake Ridge Chapel, she participates in a support
         group for widows and widowers. This community has             Your support allows us to provide mini-grants for equipment
         provided her with a space to connect with others who           and services not covered by insurance, monthly support
         understand the pain of losing a loved one, and she             group meetings and education, as well as other support
         finds solace in sharing her journey with those who have          services that are necessary for battling this disease.
         faced similar losses.
                                                                       For more information on how to support the West Texas ALS
         Through her involvement in both the West Texas ALS                       Support Group, please visit
         Support Group and the Ladies and Men of Lake Ridge                       www.WestTexasALS.com
         Chapel, Charlie has become a source of inspiration
         for many. Her ability to navigate her grief while
         helping others speaks volumes about her strength and
         character. She often shares her story, emphasizing the
         importance of support, understanding, and connection
         during times of hardship. Charlie believes that
         everyone deserves compassion and support, especially
         when facing life’s most difficult challenges.

         As Charlie continues her advocacy for those affected by
         ALS, she is not just a survivor of loss; she is a champion
         for change. Her efforts remind us all of the power of
         love, the importance of community, and the impact one
                                                                                 Scan QR code to go to
                                                                                 ww.WestTexasALS.com


                                                                                             Lubbock Senior Link  63
   58   59   60   61   62   63   64   65   66   67   68