The following report by medical editor Marilyn Brooks first aired Sept. 30, 2005, on Channel 4 Action News at 5 p.m.

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Lou Gerhig's disease is also called amytrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. Researchers have found an old but unique way to spread medicine through the body. It's not a cure, but it is letting some patients remain productive, longer.

If you travel the turnpike, you've probably seen Joe Hrezo. He always gives a friendly nod when he takes your money.

You'd never guess he's battling a terminal disease.

"I probably first noticed problems back in 1993 or 1994," said Hrezo.

Hrezo suffers from ALS. It's slowly killing nerve cells in his brain and spinal cord that control his muscles. Eventually, they won't work at all.

Baclofen helps control the symptoms of ALS. But the pills have side effects.

"I was sleepy all the time," said Hrezo.

But there is another way to receive the medication. "Not too many patients, but also not too many physicians or health care providers, know about this treatment," said neurologist Dr. Francois Bethoux.

Surgeons implant a small baclofen-filled pump in the abdomen. A tube attached to the pump is then inserted into the spinal column, which then pumps the medication into the spinal fluid.

"It relaxes muscles and makes limbs, especially legs, much looser. And that way people can be more comfortable, more active," said Bethoux.

"It's changed my life drastically," said Hrezo.

The baclofen pump is refilled every six months. Doctors stress that the treatment is not for everyone with ALS, and it's not a cure.

"It requires a surgery to put the pump in. So, you have to make sure that it's worth it -- that the risk-to-benefit ratio is favorable," said Bethoux.

For Hrezo, the risk was worth it. He continues to show up for work every day -- while he continues to fight.

The baclofen pump is also used for patients with cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. The fact that Hrezo continues to work has not gone unnoticed by the state of Pennsylvania. He was recently honored with the State Employee With A Disability Award.