The ALS Association Fall 2006 Media Tips

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 19, 2006--The following news and feature story leads are designed to assist the news media with crafting stories that increase the public's awareness and understanding of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.


Powerful Message Delivered in New PSAs By Young Man with ALS

Eric Obermann was leading the typical teenager's life. He attended college, enjoyed playing the clarinet, going backpacking and running. Through hard work and dedication, he set out to accomplish many of his goals until an uninvited guest arrived. He was diagnosed with ALS at age 19. Five years later, Eric uses a wheelchair, breathes with the assistance of a ventilator and communicates with the help of assistive communications technology. Why did Eric and his family agree to appear in two new public service announcements for The ALS Association? What was going through Eric's mind as the cameras rolled? Where does he draw his strength and courage from?

President and CEO of The Association Cut from Different Cloth

How many CEOs dedicate themselves to being out of a job? Meet Gary Leo of The ALS Association. In 2004 when he informed his mother he had been appointed CEO, at first she was happy, and then she said: "Find a cure; you'll be out of a job!" This anecdote underscores this is not your everyday CEO's commitment to finding temporary unemployment. What makes him different from other CEOs? What makes this position more challenging than any other he has had before? How does his "Six P's" inspire everyone in the organization? What has he accomplished since joining the organization 2-1/2 years ago?

Care Connection Supports the Entire Family

Caring for someone with ALS is a 24/7 job. Caregivers once felt the weight of the world on their shoulders. This was the scenario until The ALS Association developed the Care Connection program which provides access to the respite and assistance they need. Families are trained on how to encourage others to become involved and take advantage of tools to create volunteer networks. Special volunteers take turns helping with such tasks as cooking, grocery shopping and yard work. How has life changed for the better for people who participate in this program? Why is this a rewarding experience for everyone involved?

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