Alcorn raises money for ALS, Alumnus Jerry Brooks

Alcorn State University students, faculty, staff, and alumni are coming together to support a good cause.

Alcorn is preparing to donate money that will help find a cure for ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in honor of Jerry Brooks ’93, Alcorn alumnus, who lives with the disease.

The money raised will be used to support ALS national research, financially assist Brooks with medical expenses and to create the Jerry Brooks Scholarship Fund to encourage Alcorn students to join the fight to find a cure.

There being no cure for ALS, patients die after suffering through gradual paralysis.

Alcorn President Alfred Rankins Jr. accepted the ice bucket challenge from sophomore De’Onqua Isaac of Columbia, Miss., who is majoring in health sciences.

President Rankins will participate in the challenge at halftime of this Saturday’s football season opener against Virginia University at Lynchburg.

“Our students wanted to join the cause,” Rankins said. “And Alcorn really wants to support Brooks, make an impact now and for years to come. That’s why we are asking students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends to help support the cause, too.”

Janice Gibson ’93, who graduated with Brooks, thinks that raising awareness for this disease is a great idea. This situation hits home for Gibson. Her dad lost his battle with ALS in 1988.

“It’s hard to even imagine the lifestyle changes required to care for someone suffering from ALS and how rapidly the body weakens,” said Gibson. “We love Jerry and he loves Alcorn State University. It’s a blessing to be able to honor him and support research for ALS.”

To give to the Jerry Brooks Scholarship Fund, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/asufevents/

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