Lou Gehrig Day: MLB Raising ALS Awareness

Since publishing the book in 2005, Eig has been involved with A.L.S. advocacy and said most of the neurologists he has met feature a photograph of Gehrig on their wall. Many patients draw strength from Gehrig’s example, too, he said.

“Gehrig is a symbol of strength, not a symbol of disease,” Eig said. “It’s important for people to have someone like him to be associated with.”

Peterson is also inspired by Gehrig, and began researching his life soon after her diagnosis. She looks forward to celebrating his day, when she can. The San Francisco Giants are off on Wednesday, so they will celebrate on June 3. The Petersons plan to be there.

In the meantime, and afterward, Gwen will continue her unflagging work, with Nate by her side.

“Keep advocating,” she said. “I love the people I’ve met. I’ve got Nate, I’ve got my family and friends. But the people in this disease, there’s a different connection there. So, I’ll keep advocating and I’ll keep making friends.”

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/01/sports/baseball/lou-gehrig-day.html