 | Jonathan Blais
ALS Warrior Poet
1971-2007 |  | | Jon Blais finishing the Ironman in 2005 |
The Blazeman Foundation for ALS supports research at Northwestern to battle a vicious disease In the almost 150 years since the disease was first identified, only one treatment has been developed to slow the course of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Unpreventable and incurable, ALS has been the largely fatal diagnosis faced by approximately 5,600 Americans each year. Jonathan “Blazeman” Blais was one. Supported by the Blazeman Warriors, the Blazeman Foundation for ALS recently took its first step to advance one aspect of its mission, to support ALS research. The Foundation made a generous gift to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to support research in the laboratory of Dr. Teepu Siddique. Working in partnership with the Les Turner ALS Foundation, the collaborative family foundation is funding the cutting-edge research of Dr. Kaouther Ajroud, the Blazeman Foundation Post-Doctoral Fellow. By funding a fellowship, they are funding the future of research, fighting for a better future for those diagnosed with ALS. In 2005, Jon Blais was diagnosed with ALS. A progressive neurodegenerative disease, ALS attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These motor neurons degenerate, then die, resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy and inability of the brain to initiate and control movement. Although the average life expectancy of an ALS patient is only two to five years from diagnosis, Jon decided to spend his final days battling the disease. Adopting the name the “ALS Warrior Poet,” he felt that war needed to be waged against ALS, that he had fight in him yet. To say that Jon Blais was determined would be a vast understatement. Having competed in triathlons for more than 20 years, he knew the face of seemingly overwhelming defeat. On October 15, 2005, 5 months after his diagnosis, Jon became the only individual with ALS to complete an Ironman, finishing in Kona, Hawaii in 16:28:56. In defiant response to the thought that he would not be able to finish and would have to be rolled across the finish line, he crossed the line by log-rolling over it. Traditionally, when crossing the finish line, athletes want to appear triumphant. When Jon log-rolled across that line, and when Blazeman Warriors roll now, they are shouting that they are competing to battle ALS. According to Jon, they understand “the cause is greater than oneself.” Always one to talk the talk and walk the walk, Jon inspired countless athletes and began to raise awareness for ALS with a move that has now become a finish of choice for many multi-sport athletes. He returned to Hawaii in 2006, as a cheerleader and voice for ALS awareness. On May 27, 2007, Jon passed away, having made an immeasurable impact on the world of triathlons and multi-sport athletes. The World Triathlon Corporation announced that all domestic Ironman, Ironman 70.3, and IronGirl events would reserve race number 179, Jon’s number in Hawaii, for a special athlete—a first in the world of triathlons. In keeping with his mindset of putting others first, Jon made the decision to donate his body to medical research. Robert Vigorito, family friend and neuroanatomist at the National Institute for Child Health and Human Development Brain and Tissue Bank at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, harvested Jon’s brain, spinal column, and other nerve tissue. “Jon made the choice to donate to our bank; he is still very much with the world, ready to help science work toward a cure for ALS,” he said. Continuing Jon’s war, his family and friends founded the Blazeman Foundation for ALS—a non-profit, family-run organization dedicated to raising awareness of ALS and raising funds to support cutting-edge medical ALS research. “As long as he could speak, Jon was a spokesperson for ALS. Even when his speech started going, he shared his message.” Bob Blais, president of the Blazeman Foundation for ALS, feels that the organization is obligated to help give an audible voice to those who struggle to speak, like his son Jon.  | | Blazeman Warriors offer support across the nation |
Primarily run by Bob and Mary Ann Blais—Blazedad and Blazemom—along with Jon’s sister, Jennifer Murphy, and dedicated friends, the Foundation boasts a truly collaborative spirit. They readily work with other fundraising organizations, such as the Les Turner ALS Foundation, and donors. Although Mary Ann claims the organization often flies by ‘the seat of its pants,’ they have a strong web presence, a monthly newsletter, and are actively involved in strengthening Team Blazeman. Multi-sport athletes—individuals who participate in triathlons and make up Team Blazeman—are their unique and devoted supporters. “I think that, at the heart of it, it is natural that triathlons attract the extraordinary. They are looking for a unique challenge and they support their fellow competitors,” said Robert Vigorito, also a member of the board of the Blazeman Foundation and multi-sport athlete, race director, and USAT-MA Region President. “I think you can sum it up with one word,” Bob Blais agreed, “commitment.” With a strong parallel to medical researchers, multi-sport athletes—these Blazeman Warriors—are without a doubt committed to their long-term goal. For more information on the Blazeman Foundation for ALS or how to join Team Blazeman, visit www.waronals.com. If you are interested in participating in the upcoming 2009 ALS Spin-a-Thon on February 7, 2009, visit www.spinforals.com. If you have an interest in learning more about Jonathan Blais—the Blazeman, visit www.alsWarriorPoet.com.
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