About the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation

Thank you for your interest in our Foundation!

The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation was established to honor the legacy of Martin Wallem, who bravely battled Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) for 19 years before passing away in October of 2020 at the age of 50. Martin was diagnosed with ALS in 2001 at just 31 years old, shortly after getting married to Cara Tracy Wallem.

Foundation Goals

Founded by Martin's family, particularly his sister Petra Wallem-Brazawski, the Foundation aims to:

  • Raise Awareness: Increase public understanding of ALS and its impacts on individuals and families

  • Share Knowledge: Provide information about the disease and its impacts.

  • Mobilize Financial Support: Fund organizations that directly assist ALS patients and their families, including medical devices and mobility aids.

Annual Golf Tournament

The Foundation’s primary fundraising event is the Annual Martin Wallem ALS Golf Tournament, affectionately known as "Marty's Party." This event has been held each fall since 2003, bringing together family, friends, and the community to celebrate Martin's life while raising funds for ALS support organizations.

See the Events tab for the next tournament date and more.

Beneficiaries

Proceeds from the tournament are donated to organizations that were instrumental in supporting Martin and his family during his battle with ALS, including:

  • The ALS Association, Northern New England Chapter: Provided crucial medical devices and mobility tools.

  • Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country (ASPNC): Enabled Martin to continue enjoying outdoor activities like skiing and hiking despite his disability.

  • Hope Loves Company: A camp for children and young adults with a loved one battling ALS, which Martin's son attended several times.

  • HARK (Hope on the Horizon): Promotes ALS awareness and helps relieve financial burdens for ALS families. Hark produced the documentary film, “Hark’s Hope on the Horizon” in which Martin is featured.

Legacy

By continuing to host the annual golf tournament and other events and supporting vital ALS organizations, the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation strives to honor Martin's memory while providing care, support, and improved quality of life for others facing the challenges of ALS.

Martin, pre-ALS in Alaska, 1999