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Though mainly known for his entertainment career, Jerry Lewis also tried several business ventures, including a camera shop and a failed chain of automated family-friendly cinemas. Later, he became a spokesperson for a spinal stimulator device to manage chronic back pain, which led him to advocate for pain relief technology in Washington, D.C. Lewis’s involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) brought both accolades and controversy. However, he claimed not to be paid for telethons; he did receive perks. The chapter also illustrates his complex personality—combining humor, anger, and resistance to therapy—highlighted by pranks, emotional outbursts, and a refusal to change. Efforts to award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom ultimately failed, yet his dedication to advocacy left a lasting impact.
By Rick SaphireThough mainly known for his entertainment career, Jerry Lewis also tried several business ventures, including a camera shop and a failed chain of automated family-friendly cinemas. Later, he became a spokesperson for a spinal stimulator device to manage chronic back pain, which led him to advocate for pain relief technology in Washington, D.C. Lewis’s involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) brought both accolades and controversy. However, he claimed not to be paid for telethons; he did receive perks. The chapter also illustrates his complex personality—combining humor, anger, and resistance to therapy—highlighted by pranks, emotional outbursts, and a refusal to change. Efforts to award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom ultimately failed, yet his dedication to advocacy left a lasting impact.