Renowned OB-GYN Physician Diagnosed With ALS, Forced Into Early Retirement
A well-known doctor who has facilitated the miracle of life for countless families has received unexpected, life-altering news – John Allred, 53, served as an OB-GYN at Madison Women’s Clinic in Rexburg for over two decades, partnering in the delivery of thousands of babies.
“Working in medicine has been incredible, but the relationships I’ve built with my patients have truly been the highlight of my professional life,” shares John, contemplating his career.
Featured alongside his younger brother, Matt Allred (14 years his junior), the pair have developed a strong bond, solidified through their shared surgical endeavors and heartfelt conversations.
However, life took an unexpected turn for John after receiving a life-altering diagnosis that ultimately led him to retirement at the close of September. John and his wife of 31 years, Nanette Allred, made the tough decision to sell their home in Idaho and pursue a move to Utah in the wake of this change.
In retrospect, John states “We started noticing symptoms about a year and a half ago, but it wasn’t until September that I received my official diagnosis. The confirmatory diagnosis at the University of Utah later that month was crushing.” He was diagnosed with ALS, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease – a neuromuscular disorder that progressively erodes physical functions over time.
Confronted with a future that is now riddled with uncertainty, John’s once energetic demeanor rapidly became affected, and with it, a sad realization began to set in for his family and loved ones. His wife, Nanette, expresses that “He’s always been in tip-top physical form – a marathon runner and an avid soccer player during his college days. Witnessing his steady decline has been nothing short of excruciating. We were blindsided.”
His children, Hannah, Caleb, and Grace, have all planned special celebrations to honor their father in light of the diagnosis. From intimate family gatherings to personalized wedding ceremonies, these moments aim to create cherished memories for years to come.
However, John’s resilience and optimism remain unwavering, all of which he attributes to his abiding faith as a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “Finding solace in my faith has been vital during this difficult period,” he says, speaking of his internal strength, “I have unwavering trust in God’s plan for me and my family – it’s what keeps me hopeful.”
The outpouring of support and loving memories experienced from patients and colleagues alike have become a beacon of love for John in recent months. Speaking on John’s successful career and unwavering commitment, Edward Evans, a fellow OB-GYN and partner at Madison Women’s Clinic, expressed “He’s been an asset and a close friend. Working with him has been an absolute pleasure. He’s a man of faith, and that resilience is what carries him. It’s just heartbreaking to witness his struggle.”
Despite the overwhelming odds set against him, John’s steadfast resolve is awe-inspiring. As he faces each new day with a smile and a glimmer of hope, he remains steadfast in his commitment not to allow ALS to overpower him. He’s a true embodiment of strength, illuminating a path for those around him to follow, inspiring others to approach life’s uncertainties with the same grace and resolve.
