Cincy Radio: Longtime WLW Personality Battling ALS

Jim Scott, longtime morning host at WLW

A Cininnati radio legend says he has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

In a Facebook post Wednesday, former WLW 700 AM morning radio host Jim Soctt said he was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, in spring 2022.

Scott, who retired in 2015 after a 55-year career on the airwaves, explained he began to experience weaknesses in his left arm, hand and right leg three years ago, the same areas where he underwent intense rehabilitation in 1954, at age 12, due to a polio infection. He said he has been hesitant to share the news of his recent diagnosis. But attending a monthly ALS support group taught him not to give up hope and "keep on keeping on."

"I have had a wonderful life, am still having a wonderful life, and I don't have any intention of checking out soon," he wrote.

Scott, 80, learned about the annual Walk to Defeat ALS through his support group. And he wants others to join him at this year's event. The radio legend said he plans to walk, despite needing a cane nicknamed "Abel." He also hopes residents contribute to the cause by either walking with him or pledging a donation.

"ALS is similar to polio in that both are motor-neuron diseases," said Scott. "The big difference is that not everyone who contracted polio died from it."

Since he's lived with ALS nearly two years now, Scott says he's been introduced to dozens and dozens of wonderful people who are also dealing with ALS.

"We learn from each other not to give up hope and to just keep on keeping on. "I've had a wonderful life, am still having a wonderful life, and I don't have any intention of checking out soon. My walking abilities have changed considerably. I now use a cane. I named my can "Abel" and trusty Abel makes it possible for me to walk without falling, through I've done that a few times."

Scott will be participating in the Walk to Defeat ALS on Sunday, September 17 at Winton Woods Park. To make a donation or to join a team, visit www.ALSOhio.org.