By Erin Crabtree, Parade | Ross “The Boss” Friedman has revealed that he is battling ALS. The 72-year-old guitarist—who is a founding member of the rock band the Dictators and the heavy metal band Manowar—was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) after suffering from a variety of symptoms for months.
“It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong,” Friedman said in a Monday, February 9, statement. “I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”
Per a statement from his publicist, Friedman learned of his diagnosis after experiencing “seemingly unrelated symptoms,” including weakness in his hands and legs, for “several months.” He initially thought his issues were caused by a “series of very minor strokes,” but “changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength.”
ALS—which is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease—is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms gets worse over time, and there is no cure for the fatal disease.
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Go here to read more about Mr. Friedman’s diagnosis and life now:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/rock-legend-ross-friedman-reveals-als-diagnosis-and-heartfelt-message-to-fans/