Today is Lou Gehrig Day across Major League Baseball, and an Effingham man will be among those helping raise awareness of ALS during a special observance at Wrigley Field.
Lou Gehrig Day is held annually on June 2nd, marking the date of the legendary New York Yankees first baseman’s death in 1941 at the age of 37. Gehrig succumbed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS, a disease that later became widely known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.”
As part of the day’s activities at Wrigley Field, Effingham resident Phil Flach, who has been diagnosed with ALS, will participate in pregame ceremonies before the Chicago Cubs host the Athletics.
Flach is being hosted by Cubs television broadcaster John “Boog” Sciambi, who has a personal connection to the disease after losing a friend to ALS. As part of the ceremony, Flach will throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the game which starts at 7:05pm tonight (Tuesday).
Major League Baseball established Lou Gehrig Day to honor those living with ALS, remember those who have lost their lives to the disease, and raise awareness and funding for research. All MLB games played today will include observances recognizing the cause.
While Phil Flach continues his battle with ALS, his wife, Karen Flach, has become active in efforts to increase awareness of the disease and connect families with available resources. She is also promoting initiatives such as Leon’s Legacy, which provides financial assistance and support for caregivers of individuals living with ALS.
The Flachs hope their participation in Lou Gehrig Day activities will help bring greater attention to the challenges faced by ALS patients and their families while encouraging support for ongoing research and caregiver assistance programs.