As many of you know, or perhaps this is news, I was diagnosed with ALS (commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease) in November of 2020.This disease currently has NO TREATMENT AND NO CURE. 

Initially, things seemed to move quickly as I progressed from walking on my own with a few graceful falls :) to a cane, walker, scooter and now I completely rely on an electric wheelchair. I am blessed to still have my voice but my breathing levels have become quite lower. With my faith to guide me, I am able to have meaningful days with family and friends.

I have decided to create a team for the WALK TO DEFEAT ALS to raise awareness and raise money for research and support services until we find a cure. Someone is diagnosed with ALS every 90 minutes, the money raised from the walk funds vital programs for ALS families. These services include: medical equipment loans, support groups, education, advocacy at State and National level for care and research toward slowing the progression of ALS and FInding a cure.

My life has been very blessed and I have gotten to know so many people starting at growing up as 1 of 4 boys in Centerville, Ohio, then playing football at Wittenberg, moving to NJ where I met my wife of 32 years, Mary. Once we relocated to Ohio in 1993, we quickly started our family of 6, one daughter and three sons. We were so blessed last year to have had 3 of our children get married.

I would be honored if you would join my team, walk with me and raise money or donate to my team. 

Thank you for helping us reach our Walk to Defeat ALS fundraising goal! Together we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by ALS. Our team is committed to raising money to support people in our community with ALS and spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure.

JOE (ICEMAN) FREES