Jerry Lewis, the actor, writer, comedian and producer, is well-known for his fight against neuromuscular disease, particularly muscular dystrophy. His association with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is visible in his role as host of the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon, which has raised more than $1 billion over the past 37 years.
His work as the MDA National Chairman has led to advances in research, improved patient care, and given hope to the millions of people afflicted with neuromuscular disease.
More than 1 million Americans are affected by 40 different neuromuscular diseases. About 250,000 have some form of muscular dystrophy. Included in the neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA are nine forms of muscular dystrophy, ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), myasthenia gravis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
"Every day I see the benefits of the money Jerry Lewis raises on the MDA telethon," said Steven P. Ringel, MD, and Past AAN President. "If a patient with a neuromuscular disease doesn't have health insurance, they still get the same comprehensive care in our MDA-sponsored clinic," noted Ringle, who is director of the Neuromuscular Division at the University of Colorado Health Science Center. "Over the years, our program has received several MDA research grants as well. These studies are designed to improve the care of patients, and hopefully, to one day identify a cure for these maladies."
Since its founding in 1950, the MDA has developed into the world's largest non-government sponsor of research into the causes of, and new treatments for, these neuromuscular diseases. More than 400 research projects are supported annually, and the results of some of these projects may be helpful in the fight against a wider range of health concerns such as AIDS and Parkinson's disease.
The MDA also supports 220 hospital-affiliated MDA clinics and 29 MDA/ALS centers throughout the United States. More than 4,200 children attend MDA summer camps free of charge. Patients receive free flu vaccinations and financial assistance for adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, leg braces, and communication devices. And the organization offers some 240 support groups, as well as professional and public education services.
Lewis, who has received countless accolades for both his humanitarian efforts and his 71-year career as an entertainer, has never revealed the source of his passion for his fight against neuromuscular disease. "It's not important why I do it," he tells people, "just that I do it."
The AAN Foundation and thousands of neurologists around the world see the benefits of his work. "Jerry Lewis has been a singular presence in neurology. His empathy and devotion to people with neuromuscular disease is legendary," according to Foundation Chair Jay Rosenberg, MD. "His commitment to helping neurologists provide better care through research and MDA clinics is unmatched. We are most grateful."
The AAN Foundation established the Public Leadership in Neurology Award to honor individuals outside of the medical profession who have advanced public understanding of neurologic disease, advocated effectively for neuroscience research, or made significant contributions to improved patient care and quality of life.
Previous recipients of the Public Leadership in Neurology Award are "The West Wing" television series (2002), Janet Reno, former U.S. Attorney General (2001), and hockey athlete Pat LaFontaine (1998).