Salt Lake Bees fans were caught off guard on the Fourth of July. Before singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," fans viewed a video featuring Lou Gehrig and his famous "I consider myself the luckiest man" retirement speech at Yankee Stadium. It was the 70th anniversary of the speech. Gehrig died two years later of ALS, a disease that would later bear his name.

Utah's Alan Alderman is another person who has been forced into early retirement. Since being diagnosed with ALS in 2001, he has worked tirelessly to raise funds and help others with the disease. He lobbied Congress for the ALS Registry Act, which passed. He's participated in many visits and support groups. He is personally responsible for raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to help others with ALS.

Lou Gehrig and Alan Alderman are great Americans whose lives are an inspiration to all. Because of the bad economy this year, Alan was unable to hold his annual fundraising event. I hope Bees fans and everyone inspired by these great Americans will help find a cure for ALS.

Brian Richardson

Bountiful