In January 2024, Dave Rusness (Fargo) was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and incurable disease that results in the loss of muscle control. This diagnosis has brought significant emotional and financial strain to the Rusness family and poses a hereditary risk for his children and grandchildren.

The family needs financial support to adapt to life with ALS, including modifying their home for accessibility, covering medical and care expenses, and enabling frequent visits from Dave’s daughter and her family, who live out of state. These efforts are essential for maintaining Dave’s quality of life and dignity.

Donations to this fundraiser will be used to:

• Purchase adaptive equipment and technology for Dave’s mobility.

• Modify the home for safety and accessibility.

• Cover medical and long-term care costs.

• Facilitate visits from family members for emotional support.

Your generosity will help the Rusness family navigate the challenges of ALS, preserving Dave’s dignity and the strength of their family bond.

When you give online to this fundraiser, your gift goes directly to the family, and Lend A Hand Up provides a 20% financial boost to increase your giving value. The Lend A Hand Up boost applies solely to online gifts processed through this giving site. Should you wish to make a gift by cash or check, your generosity should be directed to the family or their fund at Wells Fargo, as Lend A Hand Up does not process cash or check gifts for families.