The diagnosis of ALS can be crushing to a family. Medically, there’s no known cure for the disease that affects control of the muscles needed to move, speak, eat and even breathe. The relentless progression of the disease impacts not only the patient, but the entire family.

Dr. Jeremy Shefner is one of the country’s leading experts on ALS. With a moniker like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, many people know it simply as Lou Gehrig’s disease, after the famous baseball player diagnosed with ALS on his 36th birthday and who would die less than two years later.

Shefner co-founded the largest and most active consortium in the world dedicated to ALS. He is also an important resource for the ALS Association Arizona Chapter, headed by president and CEO Taryn Norley.

While Shefner battles the disease, the association walks with families following diagnosis. They offer free medical equipment, caregiver support, children’s programs and support groups. The association is also involved with advocacy, research and public awareness programs.

Learn about the disease, resources and two heroic people who are working for those diagnosed with ALS.

Click here to learn more about ALS AZ: https://alsaz.org/

Original air date: November 2, 2023.