ROSS THE BOSS: DIAGNOSED WITH ALS

Ross “The Boss” Friedman — co-founder of both MANOWAR and THE DICTATORS, and a guitarist whose impact on heavy metal and punk continues to resonate — has been diagnosed with ALS, commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

A statement from Ross’s publicist reads as follows: “Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, founding member of punk rock legends THE DICTATORS and heavy metal stalwarts MANOWAR, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS),commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The diagnosis followed several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs. A series of very minor strokes was initially thought to have been the cause, but changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength”.

Friedman, 72 years old now, added in his own statement: “It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all”.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and ultimately fatal neurodegenerative disorder that attacks the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to increasing muscle weakness, paralysis, and the gradual loss of voluntary movement.