The University of Southern Indiana will host Illuminate ALS, a special event at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29 in Carter Hall, located in University Center West on the USI campus, to raise awareness for those affected by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
The event includes a screening of Stitching Strength, a short film highlighting the journeys of individuals living with ALS, including 2013 USI graduate Frank Rynkiewich. Also featured is Duke neurologist Dr. Richard Bedlack, renowned for his care of patients with ALS and his distinctive, fashion‑forward style. Following the film, Bedlack will deliver a presentation, after which guests can participate in a Q&A, explore resources from partner organizations and learn more about current ALS research.
“Dr. Bedlack is known for his advocacy, research and compassionate leadership,” says Madison Rynkiewich, Frank’s wife and a two-time USI alumna. “He embodies the idea of illumination within the ALS community, providing hope to patients and families.”
Bedlack, the Stewart, Hughes and Wendt Distinguished Professor of ALS at Duke and Director of the Duke ALS Program, has published more than 180 ALS‑related articles and leads the international ALSUntangled and ALS Reversals programs. His work investigates alternative therapies, patient‑centered care approaches and cases of unexpected recovery in ALS.
“We are excited that Dr. Bedlack will be at USI for Illuminate ALS,” says Madison. “The vision of this event is to offer encouragement to those affected by ALS, positively impact current and future healthcare clinicians and unite the community in advocacy.”
Illuminate ALS is presented in collaboration with the USI Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program; USI Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA); Alumni Engagement and Volunteer USI; USI Center for Health Professions Lifelong Learning; Indiana Occupational Therapy Association (IOTA); Friends and family of Frank Rynkiewich; ALS United; and ALS Family of Faith.
The event is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 2:15 p.m. For those unable to attend, there is an option to view Bedlack’s talk and Q&A session via livestream. For both attendance options, participants are asked to reserve a spot in advance.
Get a sneak peek by watching the Stitching Strength trailer. USI alumni Frank and Madison are at clips three and four.
Continuing education credits will be offered by the USI Center for Health Professions Lifelong Learning for nurses, physicians, social workers and pharmacists, as well as the IOTA for occupational therapists and the University of Evansville for physical therapists.
For more information, contact Sean Weir, Chair of USI Occupational Therapy Assistant, at sweir@usi.edu.
The documentary and related presentation contain sensitive subject matter and are recommended for adult audiences only.