New patient services offered
for those with Lou Gehrig's disease

The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association (ALSA) of Upstate New York is initiating support group meetings for education and awareness, with follow-on patient service programs for those with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

The first meeting will be held on May 27, 6 p.m. at Monroe Wheelchair, 3340 Monroe Avenue in Brighton, and will be facilitated by Dr. Nancy E. Cooper, Ph.D., CGP.

Dr. Cooper has recently established a private practice to work with individuals and families affected by life-changing illness. She has formerly served as the Director of Programs for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Upstate New York Chapter, and as the Education Chair and Board member of the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.

Representatives from ALSA Upstate NY will be available that evening to provide further information regarding the chapter's Patient Service Programs, the James B. Howard Memorial Library of books and videos on living with and caring for someone with ALS, the durable medical equipment loan closet to assist in a patient's day-to-day living needs, as well as to identify how volunteers can assist in the Upstate Chapter's efforts.

While there are a number of organizations that provide assistance in various ways for those with Lou Gehrig's disease here in the Rochester area, the ALS Association is recognized for including home visits by individuals who have experienced this illness first hand. These patient advocates have participated in specialized training programs regarding life transitions and day-to-day quality of life support for both patients and caregivers.