Huntington Times

Jacob Harper, a 23-year-old from West Virginia diagnosed with a rare form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is leading efforts to support ALS clinics and research. Harper, the youngest person in the state with ALS, was diagnosed in 2022. His determination has inspired initiatives to raise awareness and funds for related causes.

Recently, Harper and his family collaborated with Racing for ALS to contribute over $6,000 to the Marshall University ALS Clinic. This clinic is operated by Marshall Health Network and Marshall University and is recognized as an official treatment center by the ALS Association in West Virginia.

“Jacob’s mission throughout this journey has been to make as big of a splash as possible,” stated Dale Harper, Jacob's father. “His goal is to help promote awareness and patient assistance.”

Harper's story of resilience is supported by the Team Jacob Initiative, which advocates for research and seeks a cure for ALS. In March 2022, at age 23, Harper was diagnosed with this incurable disease that typically carries a three- to five-year life expectancy. He is participating in a clinical trial for ION 363, a drug that Team Jacob hopes will slow disease progression.

Team Jacob aims to educate people about ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. The condition affects voluntary muscle movements like those used for moving arms and legs. Currently, Harper uses his eyes to control an electric wheelchair and operate a speech-generating device.

Through social media efforts, Harper has raised funds for organizations within the ALS community such as the Marshall University ALS Clinic. The donated money will be used to buy equipment for patients at the clinic.

For more information on Racing for ALS and Team Jacob WV, visit https://daleharper66.wixsite.com/teamjacobwv/about. For details about the Marshall University ALS Clinic, visit marshallhealth.org/ALS or call 304-696-3246.