National Honor Society members are writing letters to former West Shore gym and track coach Jason Whitworth, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in September 2011. The disease has taken away Whitworth’s ability to eat and breathe on his own and has confined him to a wheelchair.

“Coach Whitworth’s days are numbered,” NHS sponsor Melissa Henderson said. “Much of the student body knew him, and we are trying to help him as much as we can. We want to bring his spirits up which is why we are asking students to write a letter to Coach Whitworth about anything they please.”

Whitworth’s daughter Alexis helped organize the campaign.

“I want to help find a cure for ALS which is why we’re also accepting donations of any quantity to help raise funds,” she said.

Henderson will inform NHS members about the letter-writing campaign at the Feb. 18 meeting. The number of points members can earn for participating is still being decided.

“I want members participating to do this because they want to help, not just because they want to earn points,” Henderson said.

The last day to turn in letters or donations will be Feb. 28. Anyone looking to write a letter, donate money, or receive more information, should see Henderson in oom 4-203.

By Juan Rodriguez