Young Voices of Hope: Bryce’s Bright Idea to Help Her Dad and Others with ALS

At Hope Loves Company, we believe in the incredible strength and creativity of children who love someone with ALS. Every child in our community carries a story that blends courage with compassion, and often, a spark of innovation.

One of those bright sparks belongs to eight-year-old Bryce.

When Bryce’s dad, Stephen, was diagnosed with ALS in 2022, her world changed. But instead of letting fear take over, Bryce turned her curiosity and love into action. Inspired by her father’s journey, she invented a squeezable, nutrient-rich food pouch she calls “The Medicine Tree.”

Her goal? To help people like her dad feel stronger.

“I wanted to make something that could help people like my dad feel stronger by naturally adding new stem cells in the brain,” Bryce explained.

The invention — packed with fruits, vegetables, and probiotics — is designed to boost the body’s natural regenerative processes and make nutrition easier for those experiencing muscle weakness. Her thoughtful design and big heart led to statewide recognition: Bryce was named a 2025 Virginia Invention Convention Finalist for her innovation in nutrition.

(Watch Bryce's pitch on YouTube here.)

Bryce’s mother, Tiffani, says their journey has been full of both challenges and gratitude. As Stephen’s primary caregiver and Bryce’s homeschool teacher, she has watched her daughter’s compassion grow alongside her curiosity.

“Bryce enjoys testing new exotic foods with her dad and analyzing his abilities and improvements in eating a specific diet,” Tiffani shared. “She hopes to do her part in stomping and eliminating ALS.”

Behind every story like Bryce’s is a family carrying love and hope through extraordinary circumstances — and that’s exactly why Hope Loves Company operates.

Through programs like Camp HLC, Hugs of Hope care packages, Beyond the Bunk virtual meetups, and Parent Meet and Greets, we help families like Bryce’s connect, find community, and remember that they are not alone.

If you’d like to learn more about Hope Loves Company and how we support children like Bryce, visit www.hopelovescompany.org.

If you know a child who is making a difference, creating something special, or simply shining through the challenges of ALS in their family, we’d love to hear their story. Together, we can amplify the young voices that make our community so strong.