Photo Courtesy Dusty LaValley Benefit Auction Facebook Page

By Tanner Smith

Community

Online auction live, proceeds to Bezanson Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer battling ALS

Feb 16, 2023 | 10:53 AM

A long-time Peace region local, four-time Canadian Bareback Champion, and Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Dusty LaValley was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in April of last year, since then he’s made a commitment to beat the illness, and not let it control his life.

LaValley’s sister, Laura Shaver says after the news had broke and the Peace region and rodeo communities found out what had happened, a live auction Facebook page was started with all the proceeds from the auction helping him, his family, travel going back and forth to Kelowna for treatment.

“It’s very heartwarming to see all the support Dusty and our whole family are receiving, and really we just want to encourage everyone to go on Facebook, it’s called ‘Dusty LaValley Benefit Auction- Fight Against ALS’ and they’re going to see all sorts of amazing things that were graciously donated for the cause, and it’s very heartwarming and were very thankful.”

Shaver adds there’s an auction item for everyone, from puppies to horses, 50 pounds of bison meat, large light-up dog houses, and much more… with a running tally of over 80 items.

The live auction closes on February 28, to visit the Facebook Page, click here.

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Shaver says through the trials of his battle, they have seen some good things; seeing Dusty remain positive and close to his passion, by coaching the younger generation, as well as the Peace Region and rodeo community coming together to start the live auction, and even being nominated for an award by his peers, a group called Cowboys helping Cowboys.

“He was nominated this year, basically they have a community where they help one deserving cowboy a year, and it’s an excellent program and he was the one they nominated this year, so that was very nice.”

She added, her family is so grateful for all the support during a tough time.

“You know you would be in a way different spot if you didn’t have the support, family and community, the business owners, the rodeo family in itself is also a family, that’s another family he has, everyone has just been wonderful in supporting him.”

Even with being diagnosed with ALS for almost a year now, Shaver says LaValley’s passion aren’t hindered, “We joke about sometimes that he’s going to go back, but I think for now we’re just going to keep it to helping the young boys get started, he can help out that way.”

She says Dusty believes; “If a doctor gives you a death sentence, don’t accept it,” and hopes his story can inspire and resonate with other’s going through a tough time.

To learn more about ALS, click here.