By Mark McClune
FOXSportsArizona.com
Fox Sports Arizona lost a friend on Wednesday. Kirk Jones passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with Lou Gehrig's disease. The news seemed unexpected. Kirk had just been by the office. The disease had progressed significantly, but Kirk was still as positive as the day we met him in the summer of 2009.
Kirk had always dreamed of standing on a big league mound. He had a pro career cut short by arm injuries. That day in 2009, Kirk made his way to the mound with the use of a cane. He found the strength to fire home one more pitch. The image of his grandson running out to hug Kirk has to be one of the greatest moments in Chase Field history.
Kirk knew Wednesday was coming, though. ALS is a disease that has no cure and takes no prisoners. When diagnosed, ALS patients are given three to five years to live. The disease ravages the body, but it doesn't touch the mind. Kirk decided to use his situation to inspire others. His story can be seen in the video above.
In an email, Kirk's wife, Karen, said, "His passing is bittersweet. He is no longer held captive in a body ravaged by ALS; however, our hearts are incomplete without him."
Karen added a personal note that "Kirk always liked visiting with you." I feel blessed to have spent time with with such an amazing man.
Kirk had a simple message: Everyone experiences adversity. All that matters is how you handle it.
