CALABASAS HILLS, Calif., May 3, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- The ALS Association presents former NFL All-Pro lineman Pete Duranko with the prestigious Lawrence A. Rand Prize for his efforts to improve the lives of those with Lou Gehrig's disease. Duranko, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2000, receives the honor at The ALS Association's National Board of Trustees meeting in Pittsburgh on April 30.
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"Pete Duranko's enthusiasm and commitment to raising awareness about Lou Gehrig's disease is nothing short of phenomenal, especially for someone battling this menacing disease," said Gary A. Leo, president and CEO of The ALS Association (ALSA). "On the field and supporting the ALS community, Pete has demonstrated the same courage and passion. The ALS Association is proud to honor Pete with the Rand Prize."
A former All-American football star at Notre Dame University and member of the 1966 championship team, Duranko went on to play seven seasons for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League. He has always supported and been involved with charitable organizations.
Since diagnosed with ALS, Duranko began working with ALSA's Western Pennsylvania Chapter and has served as honorary chair of the chapter's Walk to D'Feet ALS(r), ALSA's signature event; traveled to Washington, D.C., to speak with congressional representatives during ALSA's National Advocacy Day activities; made public appearances; and participated in golf tournaments and other awareness and fundraising events.
In addition, Duranko helped raise funds to establish a program that provides relief to those who care for ALS patients, so that caregivers can have a few hours personal time. In appreciation, The ALS Association's Rocky Mountain Chapter named the program The Pete Duranko Respite Care Program.
"I'm doing what I love to do," said Duranko, "speaking with people, using humor to lift spirits and raising awareness about ALS. Using my success in athletics to help worthy causes has been a big part of my life. I'm very proud and humbled to be recognized by The ALS Association, and I will continue to support the fight against ALS in every way possible."
The Lawrence A. Rand Prize recognizes the courage, passion and commitment of those serving the ALS community as volunteers, researchers, healthcare professionals, educators/communicators, or in other ways help the quality of life of people affected by Lou Gehrig's disease. The ALS Association recognizes that the success of its mission to find a cure for and improve the lives of those living with ALS, is enhanced by individuals who enrich the community, inspire others, and serve ALS patients, and their families and caregivers.
The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit voluntary health organization dedicated solely to fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. For more information, contact ALSA at 818-880-9007 or visit the ALSA website at www.alsa.org.
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