ALS Across America

Jerry Fouts, Ozark, Missouri

Keith Worthington Chapter

His picture shows a seemingly fit man donning a cap indicating he proudly served his country.  However, Jerry Fouts’ appearance belies the fact he has lived ALS for more than two years.  Nonetheless, Fouts keeps busy by working with The ALS Association’s Keith Worthington Chapter and educating his community about the impact the disease has on people.

Jerry
Jerry Fouts

For his awareness efforts, the chapter will recognize Fouts and his wife and caregiver, Betty, in May during ALS Awareness Month for the annual “ALS Across America” campaign. 

Since learning that he has Lou Gehrig's Disease in February 2010, Fouts, who owned and operated both a hardware store and supermarket for 25 years, has been an active advocate for those living with the disease.  He created a DVD of information about ALS which he distributes at health fairs and to area businesses.  In addition, he is working on a second DVD to be used for presentations to local organizations.  Fouts, a veteran who served with the U.S. Army from 1954 1973, also appeared on The ALS Association’s national Website’s Wall of Honor campaign.
“Jerry has a strong desire to be an ALS advocate,” said chapter Program Director Sally Dwyer.  “He shares his story about his life with the disease at every opportunity.” 

Aside from informing his hometown about the physical and emotional toll ALS has on people and their families, Fouts, 76, is participating in his second clinical drug trial to find treatments for the disease.  He recently started a 12-month trial at The University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City.  This three-hour drive from his home illuminates the commitment Fouts has in fighting Lou Gehrig’s Disease. 

Fouts feels fortunate to still be able to walk, talk, eat and breathe on his own.  He is also blessed to be celebrating 57 years of bliss with Betty.

This May, Fouts and his family will be among the ALS advocates attending the National ALS Advocacy Day & Public Policy Conference.  He is particularly interested in learning about the latest ALS research and is planning to ensure he leaves the national capital with a good understanding of the science of ALS.

The ALS Association