Join the Susan Mast ALS Foundation (SMAF) in partnership with the Calvin University School of Health for a special screening of Dr. Richard Bedlack's award-winning documentary Stitching Strength. The screening will be followed by a live Q & A panel featuring Dr. Bedlack, Julie Snelling, SMAF Executive Director, and Timothy Koster, SMAF Board and Endowment Member, moderated by Alec VanderLugt, Calvin University School of Health Alumni.

Event Details

Thursday, November 19, 2026
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Calvin University Chapel
1835 Knollcrest Circle SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

This event is free and open to the community.

Please register in advance so we can plan appropriately for seating and event logistics.

About the Event

The Susan Mast ALS Foundation is honored to welcome Dr. Richard Bedlack to West Michigan for a special evening centered on ALS, research, hope, and the people whose lives are affected by this disease.

Dr. Bedlack is the Director of the Duke ALS Program and a nationally recognized neurologist and researcher known for his unconventional style, innovative thinking, and commitment to people living with ALS.

The evening will include a screening of Stitching Strength, a film that looks at ALS through a different lens.

ALS changes nearly every part of life, but it does not erase personality, purpose, humor, creativity, or hope.

Stitching Strength follows Dr. Bedlack and people whose lives have been touched by ALS, exploring how medicine, relationships, self-expression, and determination can continue to create meaning even in the midst of uncertainty.

Dr. Bedlack’s colorful style may be what first gets your attention, but it is his belief in his patients and his willingness to challenge convention that leave the lasting impression.

Following the film, Dr. Bedlack will share his perspective on ALS, current research, patient care, and the importance of continuing to ask questions and explore possibilities.

Guests will also have an opportunity to hear directly from Dr. Bedlack and participate in conversation.

What Guests Can Expect

Screening of Stitching Strength Stitching Strength — Hope has a color. Healing has a style.
Presentation by Dr. Richard Bedlack
Insights into ALS research, care, and emerging ideas
Stories of resilience, creativity, and connection
Opportunity for questions and conversation
A chance to connect with others in the ALS community
Hear what is ahead for the Susan Mast ALS Foundation and how we are working to create long-term support for ALS families in West Michigan

About Dr. Richard Bedlack

Richard S. Bedlack, MD, PhD, is Director of the Duke ALS Program and the Stewart, Hughes, and Wendt Distinguished Professor of ALS at Duke University.

Dr. Bedlack has dedicated his career to caring for people with ALS and exploring new and unconventional approaches to ALS research and treatment. He is widely recognized for his creativity, optimism, and willingness to challenge traditional thinking while keeping patients at the center of his work.

About the Susan Mast ALS Foundation

The Susan Mast ALS Foundation provides support, resources, and assistance to individuals and families living with ALS throughout West Michigan.

Our goal is to help families navigate the challenges of ALS while remaining surrounded by care, dignity, connection, and community.

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor

Stitching Strength: Creativity and Hope in the Fight Against ALS

An Evening with Dr. Richard Bedlack