Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Grams.
Hi Mary, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey with ALS began in 1995 when my mother was diagnosed at the age of 58. She passed away in 1997. At the time, my husband I were living in MN. In 2003 we took a leap of faith and moved to North Carolina. We both pursued our career in sports but I always had a connection with ALS. I was fortunate to work in the NASCAR industry and than transitioned to VP of Partnerships with the Charlotte Checkers for nearly 14 years. I literally sold fun for a living and created amazing partnerships and friendships along the way. However, I never lost my passion to raise money to help those in the fight against ALS. I began raising money for ALS in 1998. Started in MN and continued as we moved to NC. I am now know as a Legacy member with ALS United NC. My team raised over $250K since we began walking in memory of my mom. It was brought to my attention on the the anniversary of her passing that there was an opportunity to take my passion to the next level and truly get involved in this fight against ALS on a daily basis and I took that as a sign from my mom and took a leap of faith. I began the next chapter of my career with ALS United NC in August of 2025 as their President and CEO. And the friendships and partnerships have followed me throughout this journey to full time fight against ALS.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Transition and change is never easy. I came from the sports world where I was “selling” fun and amazing experiences to now helping a families face the biggest challenge of their lives. ALS doesn’t impact one person, it attacks the entire family and friends, It takes a village to face this illness. I feel blessed that I’ve been able to use my personal experience to understand and assist our patients and caregivers. I would be lying if I said there weren’t struggles along the way. My team and I have experienced many bumps in the road, but we keep driving. I am confident we will continue to fight against this illness until the illness cease to exist. But until that day we keep fighting for those who can’t. We provide the hope when our families have a hard time finding it. They are the reason we get out of bed everyday. Passion in our purpose and when I feel like the struggle is too much I look at my mom and think about what she faced and get up, wipe my tears and press on. Because that’s what she did. I was blessed to learn from that amazing woman for 30 years. She taught me how to live and how to die.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have made made a career out of creating amazing partnerships that have turned into amazing friendships. I am most proud of my professional and personal network. I stay true to myself and pour 100% into everything I do. I always believed if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life. Not to say there won’t be struggles, but to know that genuine work ethic goes a long way. And it takes a team to build something amazing. No job is too big or too small for me. You are only as strong as the links in your fence.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’ve had many role models and supporters. First and foremost were my parents. They taught me how to work hard and not expect anything. If I wanted something then I must work for it. Take time to smile and enjoy the small moments in life and that everything happens for a reason and to trust the path that leads you. My husband is my biggest cheerleader. He has always supported every decision I’ve made in my career path and provided the courage when I wasn’t sure. He has been my support constant for over 42 years. I’ve learned from the best leaders, in my younger years, Tom Tiller former CEO from Polaris showed me how to achieve success by creating a plan and sticking with it. Tera Black, former COO from the Charlotte Checkers (and one of my dearest friends) taught me to never give up, pivot if need be and know it will all work out. Roll up your sleeves and be a part of the team. She led by example and taught me how to create the life/work balance while achieving success. And a few of my best friends who have been in major leadership roles (Nicole Swanson, Heather Lovier and Lisa Nori) have shared their secret to accomplishing the things I want without losing myself in the process. They have been an amazing sounding board when I questioned myself and some of my decisions. I would be lost without all of these individuals who played a critical role in where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alsnc.org
- Instagram: alsncchapter
- Facebook: ALS United North Carolina
