Medford, Ore.– Between the ALS Association and a very dedicated Neurologist, Southern Oregon now has two new clinics in Grants Pass and Medford. They’re specific to ALS or Lou Gerig’s disease. It debilitates motor skills and eventually leads to death. There’s no cure and only one medication available for it.
Carolyn Rice was diagnosed with the disease last October and now she has a difficult time walking and speaking.
She said, “I have to re define myself and i happen to have a really wonderful husband I couldn’t imagine..”
Rice is a former Grants Pass High school art teacher who for the most part has a had a solid life. But now that she has to deal with ALS she see’s life in a different way.
“The world is still fascinating and beautiful the colors the people and I guess you appreciate things….more when you see…you see them up close.”
She is thankful to have a clinic in Grants Pass otherwise she would have to drive to San Francisco, bend, or Portland. And is thankful for her husband Donald who has been her rock all along the way. “Iwould never have know how great he is…except for some things that have happened int he last year.”
Neurologist, Dr. Eric Lee pushed for the clinic and says it’s vital for people with ALS. “Addressing equiptment needs is huge because you weaken a muscle such as in the arm you’re going to find that you’re going to need tools and things that can help you in your day to day activity.’
And said it’s a collaborative effort. “We saw a real need for a clinic which is a nation wide program where we get together a bunch of specialties including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy.”
All of the Physicians and Therapists were trained by the ALS Association.
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