Elmhurst Resident Runs 100-plus Miles to Honor Cousin with ALS

Source: ALS Foundation

Paul Krauter of Elmhurst has watched his cousin Tom Verachtert gradually lose abilities that most people take for granted—walking, talking and eating—since being diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in April 2009. To honor him and raise funds for the cause, Krauter is running a series of three long-distance races as part of the Les Turner ALS Foundation’s Run For ALS program. Paul completed the Advocate Dryer Fox Valley Marathon in September and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October. Now, he is preparing for The North Face Endurance Challenge in California Dec. 7. 

Paul has collected more than $2,000 for the Les Turner Foundation. 

“Nearly two years ago, I read Running on Empty by ultra-marathoner Marshall Ulrich, which inspired me to take up running and pursue long distance races,” he said. “I had never run more than a few miles, but I trained for and completed the Fox Valley Marathon last year. As I increased my mileage, I found I really enjoyed the solitude of running and I’m able to use the time to think and decompress.”

After finishing his first marathon, Paul committed to run the Fox Valley race, and when he learned of the Les Turner ALS Foundation’s run For ALS program, he joined the team and expanded his commitment from one race to three. The Run For ALS program helps runners prepare for races and assists them with fund-raising efforts. Paul’s final race in this series, The North Face Endurance Challenge, features drastic elevation changes along a 50-mile course of dirt trails and portions of track overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

“This undertaking has certainly been a challenge for me, but my cousin serves as a strong inspiration for both the running and fund-raising aspects of my effort,” he said. “When I consider his daily struggles, I know how fortunate I am to have my health and I’m reassured I can do this. I want to run for those who can’t and speak for those who aren’t able to.”

To donate to Paul’s efforts, visit www.Run4ALS.org and search for Paul Krauter. 

Tom’s Story

In 2009 while doing chores around his St. Louis home, Tom Verachtert began noticing stiffness in his hands and twitching in his arms. Concerned these symptoms could be more than just everyday aches and pains, he sought advice from his primary care physician. After conducting several exams and tests, his physician suspected he might have ALS and referred him to a neurologist, who sent him to another specialist, who eventually confirmed he has ALS. 

Tom and his wife, Dawn, were unsure of what the future would hold. Shortly after being diagnosed, Tom secured a full-time job in new business development; however, his health began to decline and he was forced to retire at age 44. Dawn needed assistance with the caregiving responsibilities, so the couple moved to Palatine where they are close to family. 

Today, nearly four years after his diagnosis, Tom is dependent upon a wheelchair, is no longer able to handle daily tasks such as bathing and driving, and relies upon technology to communicate. With two advanced degrees and a thirst for intellectual stimulation, Tom spends much of his time playing chess, listening to lectures and reading on the computer. In addition, he treasures time with his two children, friends and relatives who help him keep a positive outlook on life.

“We were surprised and humbled by Paul’s desire to run and fund-raise in my honor,” Tom said. “What he is doing is remarkable, and we’re proud that he is supporting the Les Turner Foundation and the ALS community, both of which we have grown to rely on for support, guidance and services.” 

What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a terminal neuromuscular disease that attacks the muscles, gradually robbing those stricken of their ability to walk, speak, eat and breathe, yet usually keeping their mind intact. More than 5,600 Americans are diagnosed with ALS each year; the incidence of ALS is close to that of multiple sclerosis and four times that of muscular dystrophy. Currently there is no cure. 

Les Turner ALS Foundation

Founded in 1977, the Les Turner ALS Foundation is one of the nation’s preeminent organizations dedicated to the treatment and elimination of ALS. The Foundation is affiliated with Northwestern Medicine, where it funds two research laboratories and a multi-disciplinary clinical program. The Foundation’s patient services include support group meetings, professional in-home consultation services, communications and durable medical equipment programs, respite care grants, and educational activities. The Foundation serves approximately 90 percent of the ALS population in the Chicago area. For more information, call 847-679-3311 or visit www.lesturnerals.org.