Light the Way
An innovative online support platform for people at risk of genetic ALS/FTD
Watch the video to find out more
Light the Way
An innovative online support platform for people at risk of genetic ALS/MND
Watch the video to find out more
Sharing a community-driven resource to meet a key unmet need
Accelerating a path to hope
Light the Way fast-tracks ALS research by connecting patients and their families with research opportunities, because every second counts in a race against an 18-24 month prognosis.
For researchers, it offers:
Participant enrolment
An extensive pool of genetically-profiled participants who are well-informed, appropriately supported, and interested in research – without needing to rely on clinical or academic sites
Research awareness
The opportunity to significantly boost awareness of observational studies, pre-symptomatic registries, and interventional drug trials in genetically-mediated ALS
Global reach
The ability to support participants internationally, which is especially critical in areas where access to genetic testing and follow-up support is limited
From the get-go, voices from the community have been included. It’s been fantastic to get to engage with experts in the field, those who are experts by their experience of living with the condition or being at risk, and community advocates.
Laynie Dratch
Genetic counsellor
I’ve been fighting ALS my whole career but, in an expected twist, the fight recently became personal when a close relative was diagnosed and I became a caregiver. Nothing prepared my family for the anxiety of genetic testing. It struck me how dire the situation must be for those who don’t have expertise in the disease, and who can’t access specialists for advice. From that frustration, Light The Way was born.
Dr Paul Wicks
Vice President of Neuroscience, Sano Genetics
Laynie Dratch
Genetic counsellor
Laynie Dratch
Genetic counsellor
Dr Paul Wicks
Vice President of Neuroscience, Sano Genetics
Light the Way supports
those impacted by familial ALS/MND
In an era where one in five ALS cases are believed to be genetic, Light the Way aims to comfort and educate those affected by ALS, empowering them with insights into their genetic risk – all at no cost to participants.
For participants, this includes:
Educational modules
Innovative educational modules supporting genetic education, peer support, pre and post-test genetic counselling, and family planning
At-home testing
At-home genetic testing, including C9orf72, SOD1, FUS, ATXN2, TARDBP
Follow-up and
re-engagement
Longitudinal follow-up and
re-engagement, including information on relevant research and access to approved gene therapies
Our why
We’re building a future in which every individual at risk of ALS/MND has access to the resources, support, and understanding they need.
Simplified participant journey
Cohesive branding integration
Seamless journey
Enhanced participant engagement
Optimised efficiency and impact
Improved participant experience
Empower researchers to foster stronger connections with participants with personalised materials.
Achieve more successful outcomes with a simplified journey and increased engagement.
Increase willingness to participate in research studies with participant-friendly portals.
Real-time accessibility
Stay current with instant access to information and updates for both participants and researchers.