Dictators and Manowar Guitarist Ross "The Boss" Friedman Diagnosed with ALS

"Ross 'The Boss' Friedman, founding member of punk rock legends The Dictators and heavy metal stalwarts Manowar, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. The diagnosis followed several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs. A series of very minor strokes was initially thought to have been the cause, but changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength."

"It's difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I'm absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all. The 72-year-old guitarist co-founded the influential New York City proto-punk band The Dictators in 1973, and remains a member to this day. In 1980, he formed the metal band Manowar, remaining with the band until 1989."

Ross "The Boss" Friedman has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) after several months of symptoms including weakness in his hands and legs. Initial evaluation suspected a series of very minor strokes, and modifications to diet, exercise, and added physical therapy failed to halt progression or restore strength. Friedman expressed sorrow at being unable to play guitar and gratitude for support from family, friends, and fans. The 72-year-old co-founded The Dictators in 1973 and formed Manowar in 1980, playing with Manowar until 1989 and performing with multiple other bands and his own Ross The Boss Band. ALS is a rare, terminal neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement.

Read at Consequence