Patient's will to live subject of documentary broadcast

Advertiser Staff and News Services

•	'Courage To Live' 7 tonight KHON, KGMB

Wedemeyer was a high school All-American in football at Punahou School and won a national football championship at Michigan State in 1966. He and his wife Lucy were living the American dream when, in 1977, Charlie Wedemeyer was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and given two to three years to live.

Since then, against all odds, he continues to live life to the fullest. The couple travel the world, sharing their message of hope and encouragement. Their story has been the subject of a PBS documentary, "One More Season," and a CBS Movie of the Week, "Quiet Victory, The Charlie Wedemeyer Story."

"Courage To Live" is hosted by actor Michael Nouri, who portrayed Wedemeyer in "Quiet Victory." Inspirational speaker Zig Ziglar, NFL coach Joe Gibbs, baseball stars Curt Schilling and Cal Ripken, and figure skating champion Peggy Flemming are among the celebrities featured in the program.

Award-winning producer Don Mapes spent 13 years compiling the experiences and impact the Wedemeyers have had on others.

Informational spots presented by Michael W. Perry, Emme Tomimbang, Kimo Kahoano and Peggy Chun will air on the documentary. The messages provide expert and resource links for counseling and practical help relating to issues covered in the program, including Aloha United Way's 211 statewide telephone assistance program.

The service provides access 24 hours a day to 1,800 agencies and 4,000 services.

All profits from the sale of "Courage To Live" videotapes and related articles are donated to Charlie Wedemeyer Family Outreach to help find a cure for ALS.