Event raises money for ALS research

By Staff
Tracy B. Cieniewicz, Hartselle Enquirer
Two members of the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce are teaming together to raise awareness and support for ALS research with a community fundraiser event this weekend.
Presentation Catering is sponsoring the event hosted by The Hartselle Wedding Chapel on Saturday, July 15, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., in honor of Bill Sims Jr., 42, of Nashville, who was recently diagnosed with ALS. He is the son of orthopedic surgeon Dr. William and Betty Sims of Decatur.
Fundraiser organizer Sheila Lawrence said she has been a patient of Dr. Sims for 30 years due to joint problems.
"Dr. Sims has been my doctor since I was 19 and he is the nicest human being anyone could ever meet," Lawrence explained. "I remember when I would have injections that he would hold the needle in one hand and wipe my tears with the other. I wanted to give something back and repay him for his kindness."
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a motor neuron disease that causes degeneration throughout the brain and spinal cord. According to the ALS Association, a common first symptom is painless weakness in a hand, foot, arm or leg, which occurs in more than half of all cases. Other early symptoms include speech, swallowing or walking difficulty. There is no known cure for ALS, which can eventually lead to total paralysis.
The July 15 community event will feature local gospel performers, a silent auction, raffles, refreshments, a LifeSouth blood drive, free ALS information, and the opportunity to donate to the Sims Family ALS Research Fund through The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
The Hartselle Wedding Chapel is located at 2851 Highway 31, South. For more information, call Sheila Lawrence at 566-5262.