What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord, and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body. ALS occurs when motor neurons die and the brains ability to control muscles is lost. People with ALS become progressively paralyzed until the whole body has failed. Average lifespan after diagnosis is 2-5 years.

At this time there is no cure for ALS.

ALS knows no boundaries. It affects men, women, all nationalities, and all races equally.

The ALS Association: Our Mission

Leading the fight to treat and cure ALS through global research and nationwide advocacy while also empowering people with Lou Gehrig's Disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support.

The ALS Association: What We Do

Established in 1985, The ALS Association is the only non-profit organization fighting Lou Gehrig's Disease on every front. By leading the way in global research, coordinating assistance and care for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters and clinics, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure.

The ALS Association: In Your Community

The ALS Association helps patients and families cope with the day to day challenges of living with ALS by providing information, resources, and referrals to many sources, including a wide variety of community services.

The ALS Association's nation-wide network of local chapter offices, clinics and support groups provide localized patient and family support in communities across the country. The chapters sustain The Association's efforts at the grass roots level, fundraising for research, rallying advocates, and providing resources, assistance and equipment to patients, families and caregivers.

Our nationwide network of certified ALS clinics -- ALS Association Centers^SM -- provides state-of-the-art, multidisciplinary ALS care and services in a supportive atmosphere with an emphasis on hope and quality of life.

Locate Services

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The ALS Association: Accreditations

The ALS Association is accredited by the following organizations:

	National Health Council www.nationalhealthcouncil.org
	BBB Wise Giving Alliance www.give.org
	Charity Navigator www.charitynavigator.org
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