![Jason Palmer gives a thumbs up to his supporters Saturday after raising $27,000 for the Johnston County EMS paramedic diagnosed with ALS.](https://i0.wp.com/www.jocoreport.com//wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Palmer-Fundraiser-2.jpg?resize=419%2C235)
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.