In the quiet, scenic neighbourhoods of South Surrey, British Columbia, Doug and Diana Mayhew are well-known not just as retired business owners or friendly neighbours, but also as a formidable force in the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
For 26 years, the Mayhews operated a successful business specializing in high-quality artificial flowers and plants, and home decor. Their craftsmanship adorned everything from family homes to elaborate sets in the movie industry. They spent their careers building things meant to last, bringing beauty into the world. Today, they have redirected that same meticulous energy and passion toward a new, deeply personal mission: advocating for a future where hope lasts forever and ALS does not.
A Powerful Movement for Change
The Mayhews’ journey isn’t just a personal battle; it is part of a growing movement. As prominent members of a dedicated community of ALS Society of BC ambassadors, Doug and Diana have become inspiring faces of resilience. They are currently featured in a poignant new commercial for the Double the Hope campaign airing on Global BC. In the feature, Diana delivers a stirring message that stops viewers in their tracks: “I have ALS, and until it takes my voice, I am going to use it to fight for a cure.”
Their advocacy fuels ALS BC Project Hope, a landmark initiative in partnership with the Province of BC and the University of British Columbia’s ALS & Related Disorders (ALSRD) Clinic and Research Program at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, which is dedicated to providing clinical care, access to clinical trials, and research. Their goal is simple yet profound: to ensure that one day, no other family has to endure the heartbreak of this disease.
Leading by Example – 2025 Move to Cure ALS
Doug and Diana’s commitment is backed by extraordinary action. In 2025, Diana was recognized as the province’s top individual fundraiser, personally raising an incredible $18,445. Her team, Mayhew’s Walk & Rollers, mirrored her fierce dedication, claiming the top provincial title with a total of $23,320.
Their efforts were the heartbeat of the annual Move to Cure ALS – Surrey fundraiser held at Hawthorne Rotary Park. Under the coordination of dedicated volunteers in 2025, including Akshay Kolli, Manpreet Dhillon, Karen Brar, and Abhay Thour, the event drew 250 participants who raised a staggering $52,389.
For the Mayhews, these numbers represent more than just financial targets; they represent more hours in the lab, better support for families in BC, and a faster path to a cure.
Double Your Impact: The Towhill Matching Challenge
For a limited time, the ALS community has a rare opportunity to make every dollar go twice as far. Through the Double the Hope campaign, all donations to ALS BC Project Hope are being generously matched 1:1 by the Towhill Foundation. This means your $50 becomes $100, and your $500 becomes $1,000 in the fight for a cure.
ALS BC is immensely proud and honoured to have Doug and Diana Mayhew as ambassadors. Their kindness, warmth, and fierce determination serve as a beacon of hope for everyone living with ALS in BC.
How You Can Help
You can join Doug and Diana in this vital mission. Beyond donations, you can help by raising your voice, just as Diana is raising hers. Share this story with family and friends, use your social media platforms to spread awareness about the challenges of ALS, or volunteer your time at a local fundraising event.
If you are in a position to give, please know that your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar for a limited time. You aren’t just giving money; you are providing the scientific breakthroughs and the care necessary to change the future.
Watch Doug and Diana’s Public Service Announcement: Double the Hope
Donate Now: Double the Hope Matching Page