05/23/2025
A fellow pALS from St Catharines is now free from the grasp of ALS rest in peace Steve
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It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Steven Gallagher, a cherished ALS community member whose unwavering spirit and endless positivity touched countless lives. Steve used his gift of storytelling to inspire and raise awareness of ALS and push for change – always with humour and strength.
Diagnosed with ALS at the age of 47, Steve shared his story with warmth and vulnerability, giving voice to the realities of ALS and the urgent need for change. He was a powerful advocate for access to treatments and increased investments in research. He brought his lived experiences into government meetings and media interviews and played a key role in pushing for the implementation of the Ontario Provincial ALS Program.
Even as his disease progressed, Steve always found ways to keep advocating and making an impact. Using his eye-gaze technology, he continued to speak out, remaining committed to raising awareness and calling for a better future for people affected by ALS.
In the face of great adversity, Steve brought positivity wherever he could, often through a well-timed dad joke. He drew inspiration from superheroes he admired and carried those same qualities into his fight against ALS, meeting each day with courage, resilience and compassion. His daughter, Olivia, was central to that motivation. As Steve shared his journey, Olivia stepped forward by raising awareness, supporting fundraising efforts, and reflecting the same strength and heart she saw in her dad.
Steve often said he had turned his focus from the three letters of ALS into four letters: H-O-P-E, which is the foundation of how he lived and how he inspired. His legacy is one of light, inspiration, resilience and the belief that every moment matters.
Thank you, Steve, for the difference you have made. You will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Steve’s family and all who loved him.
