ALS ice bucket challenge helped get closer to cure than ever before
Nine years after the viral challenge began, researchers and scientists have said that it actually did help in a very major way.
Many. of us took part in or at least remember the super iconic ice bucket challenge from 2014.
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In an attempt to raise funds for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) research, people started dumping buckets of ice water on their heads and would challenge friends, family, colleagues, and even celebrities to do the same.
These days, TikTok dance trends or challenges tend to pop up and reach millions within days, whereas the ice bucket challenge really was part of a turning point in social media.
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But at the time, most people were wondering whether or not taking part in this seemingly childish challenge could truly have an effect on the research into ALS or if it would help save any lives at all. And rightfully so.
As it turns out, it did have a lasting positive effect and has helped scientists, researchers, and doctors get closer to a cure for the disease than ever before.
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According to National Geographic, 17-million people uploaded their challenge videos on Facebook and it resulted in $115-million being raised for the cause in only six weeks, while also creating a massive amount of awareness for a disease which at that point had few treatment options and no cure.
The Ice Bucket Challenge was incredible and unprecedented for any disease charity. When you have more money to invest, you have more chances for things to work—and that's what we're seeing now.
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The challenge has accelerated the fight against this disease by funding work that has identified five new genes that are linked to ALS, novel drug therapies, and even more importantly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved two new treatments for ALS.
This has all been accomplished thanks to the originators of the challenge: golfer Chris Kennedy, Kennedy's family member with ALS, Anthony Senerchia, and his wife who took part in the challenge, as well as Pat Quinn and Pete Frates.
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a disease that degrades nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord over time, leading to loss of muscle control and and, ultimately, inability to talk, move, eat, and breathe. Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS affects more than 31,000 people in the United States, estimates show; most live only two to five years after symptoms develop.
And just in case you wanted to go on a journey back in time, here are some of the most iconic and hilarious ice bucket challenges:
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Main image courtesy of @QldBrainInst/Twitter