Fundraiser Held For Paramedic Battling ALS

Jason Palmer gives a thumbs up to his supporters Saturday after raising $27,000 for the Johnston County EMS paramedic diagnosed with ALS.
Jason Palmer gives a thumbs up to his supporters Saturday after raising $27,000 for the Johnston County EMS paramedic diagnosed with ALS.

Over $27,000 was raised Saturday for Jason Palmer, a Johnston County EMS paramedic who was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in May.

Palmer is now confined to a wheelchair, needs a ventilator to help him breath, a feeding tube, and assistance moving.  However, Jason was able to attend the event at the Smithfield Recreation & Aquatics Center where more than 100 people participated in a 5k run, one mile walk, and a Kids Dash. 

The Johnston County EMS Association and co-workers of Jason put together the “Team Palmer” event to provide financial support for Jason and his wife, Lauren, a former nurse, who became disabled in 2011.

Jacob Gonzalez, a junior at South Johnston High School, was the winner of the 5K. 

Other EMS organizations are still holding fundraisers for Jason.  If you would like to help, call 919-989-5050 or email TeamPalmer2015@gmail.com.