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By Michele DeFazio/ News Correspondent
Friday, April 15, 2005

Seventy-five year old George Grasso faithfully visits his younger brother Salvatore, 59, three times each week at the Sinai Hospital in Stoughton. For the past six years, Salvatore's only communication has been through the assistance of an eye scan, but that doesn't keep George and his brother from understanding each other.

Salvatore suffers from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as Lou Gerig's disease. ALS is a disorder of the central nervous system which eventually leaves its victims paralyzed although their mind remains unaffected. George's symptoms have significantly progressed since his diagnosis 11 years ago leaving him with only limited facial movement.

In addition to his brother, Salvatore receives regular visits from family and friends. But on Monday evenings, his room is filled with song.

Each week, Leah Bloom of Stoughton and Laura Swearingen of Winchester visit with Salvatore. Sometimes they talk, but they primarily sing.

"We go in for like an hour and sing to him from either voice or musical theatre," Bloom said.

Bloom and Swearingen participate in the Extra Hands for ALS Program. Through Extra Hands, high school and college students volunteer their time to assist a person afflicted with ALS or their families. Their support can range from helping with small household projects, running errands or providing comfort and company to their patient.

"Our program is as much for young adult volunteers as it is for patients and families," said Corinne Lippie, program manager for the greater Boston area. "We see this program as helping to shape the next generation of leaders that is committed to giving back to their communities and making a difference in other people's lives."

The philanthropic organization was launched three years ago by Jack Orchard when he was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 33. Orchard developed two programs, Extra Hands and the Jack Orchard ALS Foundation. The foundation was formed to generate revenue for research and fund its sister company to assist effected patients with the disease, provide education on ALS and introduce the concept of community service to young adults.

"The rational was for the foundation to fund research, but in the meantime helping people cope with it [ALS]," Lippie said.

Students work in pairs volunteering their time one hour per week and are monitored by an Extra Hands adult mentor. They are encouraged to commit through their academic year, however, many extend their allegiance once they are involved.

"What we find is that many, almost all of the students, go beyond the year because they develop close personal relationships with the patient and their families," Lippie said.

Bloom, a junior at Stoughton High School, began visiting Salvatore last May and said she plans on continuing her visits for at least another year.

"I'm going to do it until I go to college because I like going and one night a week does not seem like a huge thing at all," Bloom said.

Although Salvatore is unable to verbally communicate, his brother feels these visits provide an escape from a disease that has left him physically vulnerable.

"They improve his quality of life for that hour," George said. "I'm sure he appreciates it."

Throughout their 10-month relationship, Bloom has observed a big difference in Salvatore's spirit. Although his communication is limited, she has grown to learn and understand a lot about her new friend.

"I've noticed since I've been coming he's been smiling more," Bloom said.

While this arrangement appears to liven Salvatore's day, this experience has also made a significant impression on Bloom's knowledge about the disease and the rewards of community service.

"The first time I saw community service I thought it would be something to do to get into college, but I continue because it makes me feel better about myself knowing I can impact someone's life," Bloom said. "It's such a small thing for me but I think it has such a big impact on his life."

Extra Hands for ALS continues to seek out volunteers for its program and educate the adult community on the devastating effects on the patients and their families. A fundraiser will be held on Sunday, April 24 at the Pierce House at 17 Weston Road in Lincoln for a brunch from noon to 2 p.m.. The cost is $30 per person. For more information on the fundraiser or the Extra Hands for ALS program, contact Corinne at Corinne@extrahand.org.