In May 2026, the National Mall in Washington, D.C., transformed into a powerful sea of blue. Hosted by the advocacy group I AM ALS, the 5th Annual Community Gathering featured over 6,000 blue flags stretching toward the Washington Monument—each bearing the name of someone impacted by ALS. This striking display represents the 6,000 Americans diagnosed with the disease every year. Read on to learn about the profound meaning behind this installation, the incredible volunteer effort required to plant every single flag in the hard-packed earth, and how this visual demand for action is fueling the fight for a cure.

OPALS 4 ALS was recently featured in a CBS 58 “Natalie’s Everyday Heroes” segment, highlighting our mission to provide pampering and personal care services to people living with ALS. Through the generosity of volunteer beauty professionals, we help restore confidence, dignity, and a sense of normalcy for those facing the challenges of the disease. This recognition underscores the meaningful impact small acts of care can have on quality of life.