PARSONS – Tucker County Commission members stepped up to the bucket and accepted the challenge to help in the fight against ALS – a disease that affects parts of the nervous system. Commissioner Mike Rosenau put forth the challenge to the rest of the commissioners, but joined in the fun as they were doused with ice water Wednesday following the Commission meeting.
Before the buckets were dumped, Commissioner Diane Hinkle said she was taking the challenge in memory of a friend.
“I dedicate this in memory of my good friend, Dr. Tom Patrick, who was a dentist in Davis, and who had ALS,” Hinkle said. “I also dedicate this in memory of those who have passed or who are living with the disease. I also challenge Diane Bell and Diane Rader, who are celebrating birthdays to take the ice bucket challenge.”
Commissioners said they wanted to challenge two other community groups to the ALS ice bucket challenge.
“We, as commissioners, challenge those working in the Tucker County Clerk’s Office and the Tucker County Circuit Clerk’s Office to take the ALS ice bucket challenge,” Hinkle said. “We, as commissioners, will add $10 each to our donation for each person in these offices who accept our challenge.”
A small group of residents and friends gathered on the Tucker County Courthouse steps Wednesday to watch Ethan Rosenau, Tucker County Prosecuting Attorney Ray LaMora III, Tucker County Health Department Director James Snyder and Tucker County Sheriff Brian Wilfong pour the buckets of ice water on the commissioners.
ALS is more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. According to the Muscular Dystrophy Association website, the disease affects the nerves that control voluntary muscle movement. Walking, talking, eating, hugging and even breathing become nearly impossible, although the mind stays sharp. Most people with the diagnosis have a three to five year life expectancy.
