ALS Awareness Month highlights urgent need for research and support for patients

Amidst the ongoing fight against amatrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, the Carbondale City Council has declared May as ALS Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the urgent need for public awareness and support for those affected by this progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease.

During the meeting, council members emphasized the staggering statistics surrounding ALS: every 90 minutes, someone is diagnosed, and another person loses their life to the disease. Patients diagnosed with ALS typically have a life expectancy of only 2 to 5 years, underscoring the critical need for research and resources.

The council's resolution calls attention to the importance of securing access to new therapies, durable medical equipment, and communication technologies for ALS patients. It also stresses the role of clinical trials in evaluating new treatments and improving the quality of life for those living with the disease.

The ALS Association's commitment to accelerating research and discovery was also acknowledged, with hopes that one day ALS will become a manageable condition. The proclamation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by ALS and the necessity of supporting research efforts to eradicate this devastating disease.

As the community rallies around this cause, the city council's declaration aims to foster greater understanding and support for ALS awareness, paving the way for future advancements in treatment and care.