On Thursday, April 25, the Live Like Lou Foundation was honored to celebrate Boston College's 12th annual ALS Awareness Game at Fenway Park.
Ahead of the Boston College game, we celebrated Boston College's pitcher, John West, as the Captain of the inaugural Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team with Lou Gehrig's fraternity, Phi Delta Theta. The team recognizes the giving character and community impact of collegiate baseball players. Honorees were nominated by their schools, and the team was selected based on their outstanding achievements. Learn more about the Community Impact Team and their lasting impact on the ALS community here.
"At the age of thirteen, John was by his dad's side as he battled ALS for four years. John lost his dad and committed to fighting the disease ALS. John's unselfish and infectious personality make him a beacon of energy and positivity for anyone who meets him. He is the ultimate teammate and ultimate role model for serving others in all his circles. John stands for everything you want in a player, a student, and a citizen. We are lucky and very grateful to have John as part of our lives as we continue to fight against ALS." -The Frates Family
John West is a living testimony of what it means to be a man In Service to Others on and off the baseball field. His magnetic personality makes his contributions to the community even richer. John has participated in many community organizations and service projects and has been recognized for his efforts. Additionally, he is the Boston College Baseball Team captain, leading the team to its most successful season in school history.
In addition, our friends at the Permobil Foundation surprised Connecticut native Jim Duhamel with a new Boston College-branded power wheelchair! Duhamel, or Jim to family and close friends, was diagnosed with ALS on July 3, 2023. Jim had to stop working and go on long-term disability due to his illness. He has been able to travel to California with his wife and caregiver Paula to visit their son James, a pilot for the US Coast Guard. Jim is a true family man and loves spending time with them. Jim is an avid New England sports fan, especially the Red Sox and Patriots. He is also a die-hard car fanatic with an obsession for Corvettes. Jim is a true fighter and is staying positive on his journey with ALS.
Special thanks to the sponsors of our 2024 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team:
Sponsor support and donations for this game help fund an endowment to support ALS families through the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team. This year, your support provided the power wheelchair for Jim through our partnership with the Permobil Foundation. Thank you!
Are you looking for a chance to attend a Live Like Lou event? This is just the start of our baseball festivities! We hope you'll join us at a ballpark near you for Lou Gehrig Day this summer. Find a game near you and get tickets here.
