WHAT IS ALS? The name amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is Greek in origin. “A” means “no” or “negative,” “myo” translates to “muscle”, and “trophic” refers to “nourishment”. So, amyotrophic means “no muscle nourishment”. “Lateral” refers to the places in a person’s spinal cord where portions of nerve cells that signal and control the muscles are located. As this area degenerates it leads to scarring or hardening (“sclerosis”) in the region. In the United States and many other countries, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, named after the legendary Yankees baseball player who died from ALS in 1941. In the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, ALS is often called Motor Neurone Disease (MND). In many Spanish speaking countries it is called Esclerosis Lateral Amiotrófica (ELA). This disease weakens and kills nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement. Individuals are robbed of their ability to move, speak, eat and breathe, but it often leaves the mind intact. Death can occur within 2-5 years of diagnosis, but some individuals have survived for 10 or more years. Some symptoms can be managed and certain treatments can help extend life. However, there is currently no known cure or fully effective treatment for the underlying causes of ALS. WHO SUFFERS FROM THIS DISEASE? ALS is not contagious and doesn’t discriminate. This disease can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Every 90 minutes ALS claims another life. Every time someone dies, another person is diagnosed with ALS. HOW YOU CAN GET FREE SUPPORT Visit alsworldwide.org/get-help to learn more and to find out how to receive FREE guidance and support via videoconference, email, phone and in-person visits. HOW YOU CAN HELP OTHERS ALS is not an incurable disease, it’s just severely underfunded. Make a tax-deductible contribution at alsworldwide.org/donate. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ALSWorldwide and like and share our posts to spread awareness about ALS/MND/ELA and give help and hope to people living with ALS around the world.