Scenic Calgary run for ALS honours courageous woman who gave hope

Runners will be lacing up their sneakers at Calgary’s North Glenmore Park next month to support those living with ALS while also honouring the woman who inspired it all.

The 29th annual Betty’s Run for ALS, which will take place on Sunday, June 8, is a fundraiser for the ALS Society of Alberta and its research initiatives across the province. Registration is open now.

For those who don’t know, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a neurogenerative disease that attacks the nerves responsible for sending messages to the brain. Over time, this impacts a person’s ability to move, swallow, and eventually, breathe. Despite many advancements over the years, there is currently no cure for ALS.

But there is hope thanks to the ALS Society of Alberta and Betty’s Run. Since the first run in 1997, the event has raised more than $8.5 million for research, equipment, and client support systems across the province.

Betty’s Run for ALS

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“Twenty-nine years ago, Betty Norman had a wish to find a cure for ALS,” said the society on the event’s website. “In spite of her own battle with the disease, Betty unselfishly used her time and energy to bring her vision to life.

“In Betty’s own words, ‘I remain determined. I have an important need to find some meaning in my altered life and maybe a justification as to why I was given this horrible disease. I want to make a difference in the time that I have left and possibly help future people with ALS.'”

Betty’s Run for ALS

Betty’s Run for ALS helps many people experiencing the illness, including Laurie Ferguson, this year’s event ambassador. It took several visits to doctors and the E.R. for her to receive a diagnosis of Familial ALS. But thanks to support from the ALS Society of Alberta, she has access to resources that can help her on her journey.

“ALS has changed my path but not my spirit,” said Ferguson, who will join the thousands of participants at the scenic North Glenmore Park. “With my community and the ALS Society of Alberta behind me, I move forward with gratitude. I’m honoured to be the 2025 Betty’s Run for ALS Ambassador and invite you to join me on June 8.

“Whether you walk, run, donate, or cheer, your support makes a difference. Let’s stand together for those living with ALS today and for a future without this disease.”

Betty’s Run for ALS

All skill levels and abilities are welcome, and whether you’re running solo or registering with a team, every dollar helps people like Ferguson receive life-altering care. Register for Betty’s Run for ALS today.

Betty’s Run for ALS

When: June 8, 2025
Time: 8 a.m.
Where: North Glenmore Park, Calgary