Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece delivered a member’s statement on June 10 in the Ontario legislature highlighting June as ALS Awareness Month. He spoke personally about those who have suffered from this disease and the need to find a cure. The following is the text of his remarks:
“In February, at the age of 66, Alf Groves passed away after a three-year battle with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Formally known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Every year more than 5,600 people are diagnosed with it.
“Alf was the husband of my sister Janet. He left behind three children and all his grandchildren.
“Gary Fizell was a good friend of mine who died in 2009 after a 10-year battle with ALS. He was very active in our community and was a long-time coach of the Monkton Wildcats.
“When Gary’s health declined, the community came to his aid, raising money for a new home that could accommodate Gary.
“To this day, the community holds a fundraiser for ALS research in his honour.
“ALS has also claimed the lives of Monkton dairy farmer Bill Mann and Pat MacKenzie, a retired high school teacher from Acton. He was the father-in-law of a good friend of mine.
“And so this disease is very personal to me.”
“ALS was in the News again just this weekend when we learned that it claimed the life of former US ambassador to Canada Paul Cellucci.
“June is ALS month. Across the country, groups and individuals are raising awareness of this terrible disease. ALS Canada is supporting their efforts.
“Here in Ontario, our communities are responding, bringing comfort and support to those who need it. In our towns and cities, people are responding to the need. I know all members will join me in thanking them.
“Through their efforts, we will find a cure. We must find a cure.”
