Fighting Lou Gherig's disease one cup at a time

Story Published: May 9, 2008 at 3:22 PM PDT

By Azenith Smith
COOS BAY - Buying a cup of Joe on Friday from one major chain is a whole lot sweeter, as the day's sales will benefit a good cause.

On Thursday, KCBY told you that for every coffee purchased at a Dutch Brothers store will help fund the Muscular Dystrophy Association to fight ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Now in its second year, Brad Young, who owns the three local stores, says, the day helps out a cause that hits close to home for their company.

"One of our co-founders, a dear friend and mentor to me, was diagnosed with Lou Gherig's disease, a couple years ago," says Coos Bay Owner Brad Young. "So, in his spirit, we've done this as a company."

Last year, in total, the company raised more than $55,000 for research.

This year, he says, they're expected to surpass that amount, all of which, he hopes will help them combat the disease.

"It seems to me, more and more people are being diagnosed with the disease and there's really no cure for it," says Young. "So, it would be wonderful perhaps to raise awareness to find treatment and perhaps, one day find a cure."

If you'd like to learn more about Lou Gehrig's disease or to make a donation, you can log onto the web site, in honor of the co-founder, at www.danesdrive.org.

Next up for Dutch Brothers will be another charitable day for the American Cancer Society on July 23.

http://www.kcby.com/news/18813309.html