Supporting Our ALS Warrior

As many of you know, Dr. Gene Cook was diagnosed with ALS in November 2021.

ALS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

This GoFundMe was created to support Gene, his wife Karen and the family.

ALS is a rare disease, affecting approximately 6,000 people a year. There is currently no cure for ALS, and the disease is terminal, with a life expectancy of two to five years following diagnosis. The disease attacks and weakens your nervous and muscular system, affecting basic tasks like speaking, walking, eating, etc. It is also costly to treat. Estimates range as high as $200,000 a year, including medicine, accessibility renovations, caregivers and equipment and many of these costs are not covered by insurance.

Gene has always stepped up to help others in the community, putting his family, patients and volunteer work at the forefront. Now it’s our turn to give back to him.

When asked how to help, Gene encouraged people to make donations to the Joe Martin ALS Foundation or the ALS Association NC, as these two organizations have offered exemplary services to our family and other ALS patients. However, many have asked if there is a way to support Gene more directly. In response, we’ve activated this GoFundMe so you can contribute to help ensure Gene’s comfort and care. Any way you choose to assist the family and/or other people impacted by ALS is deeply appreciated.

Please share as appropriate with anyone who may want to engage in this effort, and, again, many thanks for your love and support.

With love and appreciation,

Friends of Gene Cook