Augie Nieto, 63
Augie Nieto is, without a doubt, a modern-day hero. Unlike most people who get demoralized when an illness strikes and lose hope, Nieto decided to see the glass half full and used his condition to create ‘Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS,’ a non-profit that has raised over $75 million in research funds.
This great work has received recognition and support from sponsors like LA Fitness, Shea Homes, and Equinox. John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting even wrote a song in Nieto’s honor in 2009 to help raise awareness. The hard work has earned the legend accolades like a Club Industry Lifetime Achievement Award. He enjoys his days in Corona Del Mar, California, with his wife, Lynne.