fivemonkeys

Today I am joining fellow COTT members, spinning for 16.5 hours, to raise money and awareness for ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive degenerative disease that attacks the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons control the movement of voluntary muscles. Death of the motor neurons makes it impossible for the brain to control muscles or signal them to move. As the muscles atrophy, it results in weakness and loss of coordination.

ALS is unpreventable, untreatable and incurable. ALS attacks otherwise healthy adults randomly and spontaneously. Once diagnosed, people with ALS have an average life expectancy of 2 – 5 years.

Jon Blais, a multi-sport athlete, was diagnosed with ALS in May of 2005 when he was 33. Instead of sulking and feeling sorry for himself, Jon started the “War on ALS” to gain awareness for the disease. In October of 2005, Jon became the only person with ALS to complete an Ironman, finishing in 16:28:56.

Jon passed away in May of 2007 but his spirit will live on because of his hard work and dedication. Jon was truly a warrior and is an inspiration to all.

You can view Jon’s 2005 Ironman on YouTube

For more information on ALS, visit http://www.waronals.com

If this inspired you, please donate