Madison has lost a true hero. Amanda Bernier, a former North Madison firefighter, has passed after a long battle with ALS.

The news of her passing was shared Wednesday, Sept. 21 through a Facebook post on the page for Amanda’s Angels, a group dedicated to supporting Bernier, her husband Chris Bernier, and their daughter Arabella.

“It is with a heavy heart to let you know that Amanda passed away,” the post read. “She is now free from this horrible disease. Amanda fought until the very end and inspired so many. Her infectious smile radiates through our beautiful daughter. Our family is forever grateful for all the love and support that so many have shown. Words alone cannot express our gratitude. The family respectfully requests privacy during this time. May the grace of God be with you always in your heart.”

Bernier documented her battle with ALS since she was diagnosed in May 2014, just two weeks after she and her husband Chris learned she was pregnant with their first child. Despite the odds, Bernier was able to carry the baby and gave birth to a healthy daughter, Arabella, in 2014.

There is no known cure for ALS, which is a progressive disease that causes the deterioration of motor neurons. Bernier was diagnosed with the most aggressive form of the disease, but despite the physical toll, she continued to be a positive force in the community.

Following the news of Bernier’s passing, the North Madison Volunteer Fire Company (Nomad) released a statement on Facebook.

“Today we lost one of our own,” the post read. “Our beloved Nomad colleague and sister, firefighter Amanda Bernier, responded to her last alarm after inspiring thousands through her courageous journey with ALS. Not only did she face ALS head-on, knowing what the disease would bring, but she also rose above the limits it placed on her life with grace, humor, honesty and bravery. In word and action, she exemplified and redefined “strong work.” She was a hero to her core. Words cannot express the profound sadness we feel upon her passing. Our hearts are with Amanda’s husband Chris, their daughter Arabella and their family members, who request privacy at this time.”

The fire company has released the following information on visiting hours and a service.

Visiting hours for family, friends, and fire department personnel will be held at Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Rd, Madisonfrom 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 26. Due to construction and congestion on Boston Post Rd, please do not bring apparatus.

Funeral services will be held at the North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd, Madison, on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 11 a.m. Any fire department wishing to participate should arrive at the North Madison Volunteer Fire Company station at 864 Opening Hill Road at 10 a.m. Apparatus are welcome.

Any questions should be referred to Chief Donald MacMillan at 203-627-3257.

Private interment will occur in Attica, New York the following week.

The Facebook post can be found on the Amanda’s Angels page: www.facebook.com/AmandasAngelsALS/?fref=ts