LAKESIDE, CA—Former crew member and friend, Jim Watkins peacefully left us early this morning (December 27, 2003) after a two year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Jim expressed in his own way that he just wanted everyone to be happy, enjoy life and not dwell on his personal fight the past years. But that was hard to do as many friends like Becky McBride, Ron Overman, Ron Esau and Sheri Ackerman-Hurst plus others checked in regularly on Jim and his family.
Jim celebrated a very nice Christmas Day at his parent's home (Rita and Jim) with his sister (Lisa) and her family, but most importantly his two children, Canton and Tajha were here for the holidays as well. The Lakeside, CA resident since 1975 celebrated his 38th birthday on December 5th and was diagnosed in October 2001 with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Jim Watkins had been a crew member for a handful of Southern California NASCAR race teams and when not racing you would find Jim with a fishing pole in hand. Jim had been a tournament team member of San Diego BASSMASTERS, fishing in US BASS and WON BASS divisions for more than five years. Jim was a plumber by trade and always lent a hand to anyone in need.
Jim's sister, Lisa Watkins-Hollingsworth, Becky McBride and Debbie Clark just completed the 2nd Annual Jim Watkins-CNS (Center for Neurologic Study) Charity Golf Tournament at Singing Hills at Sycuan on December 5th which raises funds each year for the local research center, CNS located in La Jolla, CA.
This year's tournament was so important for everyone, including Stu Peace fellow Cajon Speedway car owner attended after losing his dwellings in the recent California FireStorm in October. The tournament featured 18 rounds of golf in a scramble format, awards for Closest-to-the-Pin, Longest Drive, Winning Team, Putting Contest and Silent Auction and Luncheon. Several local race cars have even been on display with the racers swinging their clubs to benefit CNS.
The Center for Neurologic Study (CNS) a nonprofit organization dedicated to the research and treatment of neurological diseases was founded in 1979 with the intent of helping patients and families who have been affected by presently incurable neurologic diseases such as ALS, MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and Alzheimers. Jim Watkins was fortunate to be a patient of Dr. Richard Smith. For more information on the study, research and background of CNS and ALS, check out website www.cnsonline.org. The mission of CNS is to find a cure for, and improve the living with ALS, MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and Alzheimers. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that attacks the motor neurons. The illness slowly paralyzes the muscles while leaving the mind unaffected. Adult men and women from all ethic backgrounds, age groups and walks of life are vulnerable to ALS, MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and Alzheimers.
In October Jim, his family and friends participated in the 2nd Annual 5K Greater San Diego Chapter of ALSA Walk to D'Feet ALS which as a team raised over $3700. Prior to this year's walk, TEAM JIM'S JAMMERS was selected as the spotlight team for their outstanding contributions, dedication and participation in their ongoing efforts for ALS.
Services are pending and information will be updated as available. If anyone has photos of Jim at an event like racing or fishing or a favorite family photo, please make a copy and send them to PO BOX 2118, LAKESIDE, CA 92040. Cards for Jim's family may also be forwarded.
