The Sisterhood She Built: A Tribute to Leah Stavenhagen

Send us Fan MailThis episode is tender.   In 2021, I interviewed a 28-year-old woman named Leah Stavenhagen. She had been diagnosed with ALS at 26. I remember thinking how young she was. How unfair it felt.  But Leah didn’t shrink after her diagnosis. She built something incredible.  What began as “In Her ALS Shoes” is now known as Her ALS Story — a sisterhood for women diagnosed with ALS under 35. A place to feel seen & less alone.  She also set out to show that ALS was not an "older white man's disease," that it could hit anyone, any age.  Leah recently passed away at a young 33.  Here, I sit down with 3 young ladies who are all living with ALS & active in Her ALS Story.   Angelina Fanous, Gwen Petersen and Karin Pacold share what Leah meant to them personally & the impact of the Her ALS Story community during their own battle with ALS.  As someone diagnosed with ALS at 38, I know the value of this sisterhood that Leah created.  It truly can be a lifeline.  I’m honored to share this tribute episode for Leah as we reflect on her impact and continue our fight in her memory.  Thank you for listening and sharing in memory of Leah.  Follow and see what's coming next: Instagram,  Facebook,  Twitter, TikTok,  LinkedIn.