Jerry Lewis

For 50 years, Jerry Lewis has led the worldwide fight against neuromuscular diseases. As National Chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and MDA's number-one volunteer, Lewis battles with fierce determination on behalf of the more than 1 million Americans affected by neuromuscular diseases. And to his many fans, he's not only an admired entertainer, but a great humanitarian striving to provide "his kids" with a better future.

As the world's most celebrated entertainer associated with a specific nonprofit cause, Jerry Lewis has devoted two-thirds of his life to the battle against more than 40 neuromuscular diseases. His energetic devotion to raising support for MDA's worldwide research program is turning that hope of a better future into reality. MDA-backed investigators have identified the genetic causes of virtually all the genetic neuromuscular disorders. Building on those findings, MDA's scientists are on the brink of developing viable treatments through gene therapy, stem cells, drug therapies and other avenues.

Jerry's efforts have helped MDA establish 230 hospital-affiliated MDA clinics across the country. The more than $900 million raised through the MDA Labor Day Telethon and other programs bearing Jerry's name make possible extensive services for people with neuromuscular disorders, including medical care, MDA summer camps for youngsters and a constant flow of vital, current information.

Jerry is world-renowned for his starring role since 1966 in the country's most successful televised fund-raiser, the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon. Since the Association was founded in 1950, Jerry's efforts have been legion — including public appearances, benefit performances, personal recruitment of sponsors and celebrity volunteers, visits with presidents, and countless friendships with people served by MDA.

Jerry started in show business as a teen-ager doing stand-up comedy. In a 10-year partnership with crooner Dean Martin, the pair shot to the top in show business, with 16 money-making films, nightclub engagements, personal appearances and television bookings.

After the duo split up, Jerry launched a versatile solo career that included success as a vocal recording artist, screenwriter, film producer, film director and actor. More recent efforts include central roles in the films "Funny Bones" and "Arizona Dream"; a four-year run in the Broadway production of "Damn Yankees," Jerry's first appearance on Broadway; and successful stage tours in Australia and the United States, performing his unique blend of comedy and music.

He has shared his professional expertise with students at UCLA, the University of Louisville and the University of Southern California (where he is a professor).

Of his many accolades for decades of achievement in show business and public service, that of which he's proudest is his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize -- the only entertainer to be put forth for the honor. Other honors reflect the wide range of Jerry's talents and accomplishments: the French Legion of Honor; Lifetime Achievement honors from both the American Medical Association and the American Comedy Awards; the U.S. Defense Department's highest civilian award, the Medal for Distinguished Public Service; and the prestigious Jefferson Award for public service. Honorary degrees have been conferred by the University of Louisville, Mercy College, and Emerson College, with special honors from the Boston University School of Law.

During his 50 years as MDA's leader, Jerry Lewis has followed a motto that reflects his caring heart and unshakable commitment: "I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again."