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Man with ALS says research key to beating disease
Sunday May 18 2008
By Shannon Schuller, Special to the Guardian

BRAMPTON - For Al Pettit, a normal day would consist of worrying that he might not be able to see his family again. He has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and in 2003 doctors said he would only live for another two to five years.
This is the case for many patients that are diagnosed with ALS. Pettit, a former Mississauga firefighter has outlived every person that was diagnosed at the same time as him. He first noticed something was wrong when he went to the Philippines. He had been there for a week or two when he noticed the muscles in his calf had been twitching. Pettit assumed it was simply his change in diet.
When he returned home he paid a visit to his doctor. It was assumed that the muscle twitching was a result of the cholesterol pills he had been prescribed. The doctors advised Pettit to stop taking the pills for two months and report any progress.  
In that time, nothing had improved. He was tested for a calcium imbalance, and a shortage of potassium before being referred to a neurologist. Three months later, the neurologist diagnosed Pettit with ALS, and sent him for a second opinion. Two weeks later, another neurologist had a new theory. She put him on an autoimmune medicine that gave him a full-body rash. Her diagnosis was then changed to ALS.  
June 7 marks the third annual WALK for ALS in Brampton. Last year, approximately 300 Brampton residents attended the walk, raising between $30,000 and $35,000. This year, 70...
Graduating students take the first step into the work world
Sunday May 18 2008
By Roger Belgrave, Staff Writer
BRAMPTON - High school students headed directly to the workforce recently got some help with their post-graduate job search at the 5th Annual Mission Employable Conference.
The event was held May 8 at the Pearson Convention Centre. Organized by both the...
Pitton joins Oilers
Friday May 16 2008
By Robin Inscoe
BRAMPTON -

Brampton Battalion goaltender Bryan Pitton was rewarded for a good season this week.
The three-year Ontario Hockey League veteran, who was among the league-leaders in save percentage this year, has inked a three-year entry level deal with...

Magical time for Colley
Friday May 16 2008
By Frank Juzenas, Metroland Staff
BRAMPTON - Shaylisha (Shay) Colley, is hoping to continue to show her magical basketball skills in the home of the Magic Kingdom.
She will be joining other young people today at the Orlando Magic’s RDV Sportsplex competing in the inaugural Jr. NBA/Jr....