I AM ALS and Protected Tomorrows Launch Financial Program for Families

An ALS diagnosis frequently occurs during peak earning years, with research indicating that lifetime care costs reach approximately $1.43 million. Within 20 months of diagnosis, only 15% of patients remain in the workforce, creating a compounding crisis of falling income and rising medical expenses. For the 35,000 Americans currently living with the disease, standard financial advisors often lack the specific expertise required to navigate the complex landscape of disability benefits and long-term care.

Through this collaboration, advisors from Protected Tomorrows will guide families on Medicare timing, Social Security Disability Income, estate planning, and home modification financing. Simultaneously, social workers from I AM ALS provide peer support and clinical trial navigation. Andrea Goodman, CEO of I AM ALS, noted that financial burden was the primary challenge identified in the organization's 2024 survey, affecting 68% of patients and 74% of caregivers. The program seeks to intervene early, ensuring families receive professional guidance before financial instability reaches a breaking point.