Scott, a beloved radio host of 47 years, died after a courageous battle with ALS. He left behind a legacy full of warmth, resilience and an unmistakable vocal tone that resonated over the airwaves in over three decades. Scott spent the majority of his career at 700WLW where he was a familiar face to his listeners. He brought not only entertainment and news, but also a feeling of community and connection.
What made Scott a renowned radio host?
Scott’s radio career was marked by the distinctiveness of his voice and his ability engage his audience at a personal level. He was a regular presence in the lives of his 700WLW listeners. He was a versatile broadcaster who could discuss many topics from sports to politics, community events to personal anecdotes.
How did Scott announce his battle with ALS?
Scott revealed in a personal Facebook post that he was battling ALS, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord. Scott was diagnosed with ALS on April 1, 2021. This coincided perfectly with the Reds Opening Day Parade. Scott loved this event. Scott was not unaware of the irony, as he expressed his disbelief with his usual humorous but poignant style.
What were the effects of ALS on Scott Scott?
Scott’s ALS took a toll on his physical health. He was well known for his involvement in the community, such as ringing Salvation Army bells or appearing at local Krogers. ALS robbed him of his abilities and severely affected his physical and mental capabilities. Scott’s friend Boland noted that losing the ability to talk was perhaps the hardest thing for him. This was a particularly cruel manifestation for a radio presenter, whose voice had been his most powerful weapon.
How did Scott handle his illness?
Scott’s illness was met with grace and dignity, despite the challenges it presented. Donna Scott, his wife, said that Scott’s approach to dealing the “indignities” of ALS was inspiring. He never stopped expressing gratitude to everyone he encountered and bringing joy to their lives, despite the rapid progression of his disease. This resilience not only defined his battle with ALS but also underscored the character traits–graciousness, thoughtfulness, and a positive spirit–that made him so special to all who knew him.
Scott’s New Legacy
Scott’s legacy will not be defined solely by his radio career, or even by his battle with ALS. It will also be defined by the impact he made on the people around him. It is the fact that he was able to maintain his humanity and kindness in spite of his devastating illness which speaks volumes about his character. Scott may not have been able to speak, but his spirit is still a powerful reminder of the power of grace in the face of pressure, and of the importance of human connection.
Scott’s journey is a testament to how you can face life’s most difficult battles with courage. Scott’s legacy will inspire and influence people for years to come, just like his voice did in the past.