Your Call to Action- What Would You Give to End ALS?

Social causes are an essential part of the very fabric of my being. It is a special occasion to have the privilege of teaming up with the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI), a non-profit organization 100% committed to finding a treatment and cure for ALS. We are working together to raise awareness of ALS, as well as raise much needed funds for advanced medical research. We have partnered pro bono with ALS TDI in support of #WhatWouldYouGive, a national awareness and fundraising campaign initiative challenging us to give up an ability to understand what life with ALS might be like for us.

This is a pro bono social cause editorial in support of the ALS Therapy Development Institute through Linqia.

Your Call to Action- What Would You Give to End ALS?

What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, Charcot's disease, is a progressive disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord controlling voluntary muscle movement. Commonly found in people diagnosed with ALS, motor neurons begin to deteriorate resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis. 

How is ALS Diagnosed?

It is estimated that approximately every 90 minutes a person is diagnosed with ALS. Currently diagnosis requires a series of clinical procedures performed to eliminate the possibility of similar neurological conditions resembling ALS. Here in the US, medical diagnosis may take as long as 12 - 14 months, leaving researchers hopeful for the development of a single diagnostic tool indicating ALS diagnosis. Additional tests to confirm diagnosis include-

Electromyography and Nerve Conduction

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Genetic Tests

Muscle Biopsy

Spinal Tap

Blood and Urine Tests

What are Signs and Symptoms of ALS?

Medical advancements in ALS research have gained significant new insights into ALS diagnosis, comprehensive treatments, and eventually a cure. Early signs and symptoms of ALS include-

Muscle Cramps and Muscle Twitching
Weakness in Hands, Legs, Feet or Ankles
Difficulty Speaking or Swallowing

What Treatments are Available for People Diagnosed with ALS?

On average, most people with ALS live 2-5 years after first evidence of disease. An estimated 10% of people with living with ALS will survive for at least 10 years. At this time, Riluzole (marketed as Rilutek), and Edaravone (marketed as Radicava), are the FDA-approved treatments available for specifically treating ALS. Sadly, there is a significant unmet medical funding need for effective treatments for ALS.

How Can We Help?

Support is needed! There are many ways we can help raise money and awareness for ALS research and drug development with the ALS Therapy Development Institute. You can gather family and friends to host or attend an event, advocate on social media, or participate in an in-person meeting. 

#WhatWouldYouGive

Working together to raise awareness and money to #EndALS requires your help. Learn more about ALS by visiting the ALS Therapy Development Institute to get involved today!

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