'Becker' Looks At ALS With Humor

It's hard to find something to laugh about when it comes to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, yet the cast of "Becker" will show us how on the next episode of the television sitcom.

The March 18 episode, titled "Talking Points," features a character who has lost his ability to speak because of the disease (also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease).

The show stars Ted Danson as Dr. John Becker, and Tom Poston will guest-star as ALS patient Joe Willakie.

In the show, Becker helps Willakie find and use a communication device, only to learn that Willakie has nothing nice to say.

The episode was inspired by the experiences of Claude Woody, a California man who has ALS and is served by MDA. Woody's son, Russ, is a writer for the show.

A spot after the show will directs people to call MDA's helpline, (800) 572-1717, for more information about ALS.

"Becker" airs on CBS on Monday nights at 9:30 p.m. Eastern time. Check your local listings for exact times.