Family to Continue to Fight ALS in Memory of Eric Obermann

Family to Continue to Fight ALS in Memory of Eric Obermann

Eric Obermann was a bright, energetic 18-year-old young man about to enter college and begin studying computer science when he first noticed something was affecting his ability to play clarinet.  A few short months later, Eric was diagnosed with ALS.

Eric’s mother, Marcia a registered nurse, and father, Stuart an entrepreneurial software executive, assisted in starting a support group in Alabama, which has now grown into The ALS Association’s Alabama Chapter.  Eric’s aunt, Jan Obermann, serves as the patient services coordinator for the chapter.  The entire Obermann family has attend The National Advocacy Day and spoken with their Congressional representatives about supporting ALS-related initiatives each year since 2004.  Marcia developed and implemented the plans to launch the state’s first multi-disciplinary ALS clinic at Crestwood Medical Center.  Together with Eric’s sister Lauren, the family coordinated and attended more than 10 Walk to Defeat ALS events in Alabama, raising well over $100,000 for The Association with the “On the Go with Eric O” walk team.

In 2005, both Eric and his father Stuart testified before the Senate Committee on Appropriations to appeal for increased funding of ALS research.  Eric’s testimony was written on a special computer set up so that Eric could type using his toe.  The moving message was delivered from Eric using a computer-generated voice device.  The text of his testimony can be read by visiting http://www.alsa.org/policy/article.cfm?id=661.

In 2006, the Obermann’s opened their home and participated in two TV public service announcements to raise awareness about Research and the Walk to Defeat ALS.  To view the PSAs, visit http://www.alsa.org/media/article.cfm?id=603.

“He [Eric] was the inspiration for our work with ALSA, and I know his courage and determination to make a real difference in the battle against ALS has been a positive example for many,” Stuart shared in a message to The Association.  “We are determined to keep up the fight as Eric would – and will move forward in his loving memory.”  Stuart has served as a chapter-elected member of The Associations National Board of Trustees, and he currently serves as Chair of the newly-formed Board of Representatives.

In a final selfless act of giving, Eric arranged to have his brain and spinal column donated for ALS research at Emory University.

“The Obermann family has been an inspiration for everyone connected with The ALS Association, and we share the family’s sorrow.  However, Eric’s courage and spirit remains with us, as we continue the fight to put an end to ALS,” said Jane Gilbert, ALS Association President and CEO.

A memorial service will be held at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in at 10 a.m. on Saturday.  He will be laid to rest at Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville AL.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The ALS Association of Alabama or the Eric S. Obermann Foundation, a charitable fund that provides college scholarships.  Donations to either charity may be sent to PO Box 2888, Huntsville, AL 35804.