Life Throws Curveballs with Kenny Hersh

Today, I’m excited to catch up with my high school friend, Kenny Hersch. His story is truly one of a kind, and I think you’ll find this conversation with him an absolute joy.

Kenny’s symptoms began with minor neurological issues, but it took two years to get a clear diagnosis. Early on, doctors worried it might be ALS, which was a scary idea. It was eventually identified as Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS)—a non-fatal condition affecting speech and mobility. Thanks to technology, Kenny can join us today.

In high school, Kenny was a force of nature, and he remains just as remarkable. He’s embraced the mantra “accommodation without surrender” with resilience and positivity that truly inspires.

In this episode, we discussed:

Kenny’s life-altering diagnosis of PLS at 45

What it was like coming to terms with his new way of life

Tools that helped Kenny transition through his health journey

How a newspaper profile transformed him into a local celebrity

The impact he hopes to make through his legacy

Links

Kenny's feature in The Providence Journal