Concord High School Principal Honored at ALS Walk

Locals gathered on Saturday to show their support for the principal of Concord High School who was recently diagnosed with ALS.

WMUR reported that the school turned its annual homecoming parade into a walk to support Principal Gene Connolly and ALS research.

Connolly announced he was diagnosed with ALS in late July. Lisa Lamb, Connolly’s assistant, said it’s time for more progress to be made against such a devastating disease.

“Someone’s got to find something to do for this,” said Lamb, who planned the walk. “They have nothing to do but help you through it. There’s nothing they can do. You just wake up every day wondering what’s going to change.”

Students, parents, alumni and school staff wore shirts with Connolly’s name and photo. Connolly took part and said he was overwhelmed by the turnout.

“I’m humbled. I feel very loved,” he said.

Connolly said the disease has already started to affect his speech, but after more than 10 years as principal he is hesitant to leave the school.

Saturday’s walk raised $16,000 for ALS research.

Watch the WMUR video of the walk below:

Image via WMUR.