The ALS Network, formerly ALS Golden West, honors the life and legacy of Fred Fisher, MSW, LCSW, president emeritus of the ALS Network. Fred died on September 10, 2024 following an extended battle with cancer. Beloved by his wife Jan, their children, grandchildren, family, and friends, Fred was highly respected as a visionary leader and a devoted community advocate.
In January 2024, the ALS Network honored Fred for his service to the ALS community for more than two decades with the Essey Lifetime Achievement Award at our Champions for Cures and Care gala. Please watch this video, which was shown the night of the event, and captures heartfelt sentiments from so many who knew Fred best.
Fred served the ALS community as president and CEO of the ALS Network from July 2003 to February 2024, when he became the organization’s first president emeritus. Fred helped shepherd the organization into a nationally renowned bastion of care and compassion while forging dynamic and innovative programs to advance research, advocacy, and quality care services for people living with ALS, and their loved ones.
Throughout the years, Fred championed organizational change with the goal of improving the quality of care and quality of life for those diagnosed with ALS and their loved ones. Fred was quick to say, “I didn’t do it alone. I’ve collaborated with some of the most passionate, dedicated, thoughtful people I’ve ever met.”
Under Fred’s steady guidance, the organization grew from serving 230 people living with ALS a year to more than 2,000. He helped institute a seamless multidisciplinary model of care that unites professionals specifically trained to meet the needs of people living with ALS. With ALS advocates and passionate volunteers he helped launch the California ALS Research Network to catalyze discovery through unique partnerships and investments. In addition, Fred forged an advocacy program that has garnered millions of dollars in government support, enacting new laws and programs to fight ALS and create greater access to quality care.
Those are just a few examples of how Fred’s thoughtful persistence affected change, and how he was a driving force in making true progress against ALS. Earlier this year, as Fred transitioned into the president emeritus role, he shared some words of thanks that capture his essence as a leader, mentor, and advocate:
“Thank you for making the last 20 years as president and CEO deeply meaningful and memorable for me both professionally and personally. Collectively, we have created a strong network of brave people living with ALS, their loved ones, dedicated volunteers, community partners, health care experts, scientists, researchers, donors, and staff members – each of you personifies our cause and commitment to end ALS.”
Fred truly embodied the mission of the ALS Network. He will be deeply missed, yet his lasting, positive impact will continue to resonate for those who knew him, worked with him, and even those who never had the privilege to meet him.
Tribute gifts to the ALS Network can be made online in memory of Fred or by sending a check to P.O. Box 7082, Woodland Hills, CA 91365.
We honor Fred and share our deepest gratitude for his life of service. He will be deeply missed by many.