RALEIGH, N.C., Aug. 4, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association -- Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter has awarded the Duke ALS Clinic a $5,000 grant to fund a nutritionist position.
The Duke MDA/ALS Clinic serves approximately 100 ALS patients per year. By adding a nutritionist to its multidisciplinary staff, the clinic's comprehensive approach to patient care will be greatly enhanced. As ALS progresses, patients often become malnourished, which can create discomfort, reduce life expectancy and predispose them to complications, such as pressure sores. This program will help maximize the quality of life for all Duke patients living with ALS.
"This position is extremely important and I am thankful that we were able to step in with the necessary funding," said ALSA Executive Director Jerry Dawson. "Through increased awareness and funding we will be able to organize more programs and grants like this one to help people with ALS throughout the Carolinas."
The Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter is one of 38 chapters of The ALS Association; the only national not-for-profit voluntary health organization devoted solely to its mission of finding a cure for and to improve living with ALS.
For more information and photographs of the check presentation, contact Ashley Hurdle, ashley@catfishchapter.org or call toll free 1-877-568-4347.