Dennis’ Legacy of Love and Kindness

I am deeply and forever grateful to the Dennis Burke Foundation for the extraordinary support they gave my husband Jim Pfeifer and our family during the most difficult chapter of our lives. Their generosity in providing months of financial assistance for Jim’s at-home ALS care lifted an immense burden, but what meant even more was the compassion behind it. Alissa, Dennis’ wife, became so much more than a resource.

She offered unwavering friendship, understanding, and a sense of connection that carried us through moments of profound fear and isolation. She truly understood this journey, and through her, along with Dennis’ family and the foundation members, we were embraced with a kindness that made us feel we were no longer alone. Alissa and her network of angels were always just a phone call away, standing firmly in our corner, treating us not as strangers but as family. Jim’s diagnosis was devastating in every way, but because of this incredible support, he was able to remain at home and, in the end, pass peacefully surrounded by love. This is something that would not have been possible without the foundation. The love, support, and humanity we received felt nothing short of miraculous. My only hope, beyond Alissa knowing how profoundly grateful I am, is that Dennis knows as well. His unconditional love for others and his desire to help, even beyond his own journey, truly changed our lives. There are simply not enough words to fully express the depth of my gratitude, but it will stay with me always.

~Tracey Alderton