Support those with ALS

Gary Gracyk is standing strong, despite the fact his uses a wheelchair and oxygen.

The Blissfield resident is battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) on two fronts: He has struggled with the disease since he was diagnosed in November 2004, and now his fighting to help others deal with the progressive disorder as well.



He and his caregiver and sister, Alotta Turner, will step into the spotlight Tuesday evening as they open the first meeting of the In the Grip of Time ALS support group. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the lower level meeting room of the Coshocton Public Library, which is handicap accessible, and is open to all stricken by ALS as well as caregivers. Their intent is to help those on both sides of the disease by sharing ideas, suggestions and even equipment that can ease their struggles.

Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, ALS strips its victims of their strength, movement and, too many times, their dignity.
Many ALS patients withdraw. They become self-conscious and no longer want to interact with others.

The disease attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Muscles become weak, movement of limbs becomes difficult and speech can become laborious. As the disease advances shortness of breath sets in, and it becomes hard to breath and swallow.

Five thousand new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year, and there's no known cure. Average life expectancy is five years, although a small percentage live 10 or more years.

But Gracyk's inner strength to help others is stronger than the disease.

If you have the desire to help those with ALS, please attend the meeting.

Help Gracyk and others live with the disease, not just survive.

http://www.coshoctontribune.com/apps...ON01/706100315