DALLAS — Long-time Dallas restaurateur Al Biernat has been diagnosed with ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig's disease, his family confirmed to WFAA on Thursday.
His family said the 68-year-old has Bulbar-onset, which is a rare form of the disease. Biernat's nephew Brad Fuller said it's a more aggressive form of ALS that attacks the face and neck. The family says Biernat has trouble talking and it's hard for him to swallow.
Fuller said his uncle is still able to do many things on his own like driving to the grocery store, but he wanted to share the news with his friends and customers. Fuller said his uncle "semi-retired" almost two years ago.
In 1998, Biernat and his wife Jeannie opened the restaurant Al Biernat's on Oak Lawn Avenue. Fuller worked alongside his uncle and is currently the director of operations and will continue to run it. Six years ago they opened another location on Spring Valley Road.
Many of Biernat's longtime customers and friends said they heard about the news, and are sending prayers and best wishes to him and his family.
"He is one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life," said Gus Schmigie, a long-time friend of Biernat's and photographer.
The family said he started showing signs last May.
"He got dealt probably the worst card he ever could have and he doesn't deserve it," said Newt Walker, president of the Newt Walker Co.
His family wants people to understand more about the disease, and how much it can take from a person. Even during this tough time, the family said Biernat's spirits are still high.
"It doesn't matter what kind of bumps in the road he has, he has Jeannie, he's got his family, he's got his faith," said Eric O'Keefe, editor for the Land Reporter.
The family is collecting notes of encouragement, fun stories you may have shared with Biernat, or pictures and videos.
Those can be shared through this email FriendofAl@albiernats.com