Causes & Sponsors
Causes & Sponsors ยป ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia
ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia
Lou Gehrig's disease
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating progressive neuromuscular disease, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
About ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating progressive neuromuscular disease, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Lou Gehrig was a Hall of Fame baseball player who played his career with the New York Yankees in the 1930’s and 40’s. ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic boundaries, typically striking men and women between the ages of 35 and 70. Over 5,000 Americans are diagnosed with ALS each year. Between 5 and 10% of those cases are familiar, occurring more than once within single family lines.
ALS is characterized by a degeneration of motor cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and, as the disease progresses, severe impairment of mobility, speech, swallowing, and respiratory function. In the advanced stages, ALS care can cost up to $250,000 a year. Average life expectancy, without invasive mechanical ventilation, is approximately two to five years from diagnosis. But with advances in research and improved medical care, many are living longer, more productive lives. Half of all affected live at least three years after diagnosis; 20% live five years or more and up to 10% will live more than ten years.
While recent research has shed light on possible causes of ALS, its cure remains a mystery. However recent advances and increased funding for research make this truly a time of hope.
About The ALS Association
The mission of The ALS Association, Greater Philadelphia Chapter, is to lead the fight to cure and treat ALS through global, cutting edge research and to empower people with Lou Gehrig's disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support.
The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit organization dedicated solely to the fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The Greater Philadelphia Chapter provides support and resources for ALS patients, their families, and caregivers living in the eastern half of Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and Delaware. The ALS Association is proud to be the principal charity of the Philadelphia Phillies.
How We Partner
The Philadelphia Fight & the Vixens have partnered with The ALS Association to support the “fight” against this terrible disease. A portion of the proceeds generated from all our events go towards this worthy cause. We also hold an annual charity match called “The Battle to Strike out ALS” at our home field in July vs. The Jacksonville Axemen, where all proceeds benefit the ALS Association, Greater Philadelphia Chapter.
How You Can Help
You can make a donation to support the chapter, honor a friend or loved one, recognize a special occasion, or donate directly in support of a Walk to Defeat ALS walker or team.
You can become a volunteer by helping at numerous fundraising events, recreational events, and informational meetings throughout the tri-state area. These activities create a multitude of tasks with which volunteers can easily assist, including administrative work and mailings, and helping at various events.
You can join the Young Friends Group, a dynamic group of individuals over 21 years of age who are dedicated to furthering the goals of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter. This membership group meets on a quarterly basis to enjoy happy hours, tours, and cultural activities all while raising funds and awareness for The ALS Association.
