sports

Wasatch High School Coach Faces ALS with Community Support

Pat Dettman, Wasatch High assistant coach, continues to support his team despite an ALS diagnosis, showcasing community strength.

Featured image for article: Wasatch High School Coach Faces ALS with Community Support
Pat Dettman, assistant football coach at Wasatch High School, began experiencing troubling symptoms while attending a football camp in Las Vegas with his son Brock in January. After multiple falls in the following months, he sought medical attention and was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in August. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons and has no known cure. Most individuals diagnosed with ALS face significant mobility challenges and a reduced life expectancy. Despite his diagnosis, Pat has continued to engage with the Wasatch High football team, using a golf cart to navigate the field. He provides coaching advice, assists with equipment management, and celebrates the achievements of players. Coach Derik Bringhurst highlighted Pat's dedication to improving the experience for the athletes, ensuring their accomplishments are recognized. Friends and local businesses have rallied to support the Dettman family, including remodeling their home for wheelchair accessibility. This project began in September and was completed recently, allowing Pat to return home. As part of this support, the family received a power wheelchair, as Pat has already experienced limited mobility in his legs due to ALS. In a notable act of kindness, Shane Clegg of Mountainland Auto Sales ordered a wheelchair-accessible van for the family, with a GoFundMe campaign initiated to help cover the vehicle's cost. The total expense for the van is around $82,000, with Mountainland Auto Sales contributing $5,000 towards it. Pat has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, acknowledging the changes in his relationships and priorities since his diagnosis. He emphasizes the importance of family and connection over material gifts during this challenging time. As he navigates the complexities of ALS, Pat remains an integral figure in the Wasatch High football community, demonstrating resilience and dedication.