Write a Letter to the Editor to Raise Awareness of Increasing Federal ALS Research Funding
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare and devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects thousands of Americans. ALS can impact anyone, but it impacts those who serve in the military at a higher rate. In fact, the Veterans’ Administration has declared ALS a service-connected disease. There is a devastating lack of funding for ALS research in the federal budget
There is no cure for ALS and as the disease progresses, people lose the ability to speak, eat, move, and breathe. Life expectancy can be less than five years after diagnosis. Funding for ALS research is essential to drive scientific advancements, develop innovative therapies, and improve the quality of life for ALS patients.
Research investments in other serious diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s, have resulted in breakthroughs in new treatments. No treatments were available for ALS for many years, but previous federal investments have led to two new FDA-approved drugs that can delay symptoms.
However, funding for ALS dramatically lags behind other diseases and must be increased. Without new and larger investments from the federal government, people living with ALS will be denied opportunities for new treatments and cures.
Federal funding for ALS research must be increased to find new treatment options and a cure for ALS. You can raise awareness in your community by sending a letter to the editor to your local newspaper and asking your United States Senators and Representative to support increasing funding for ALS research.
You can help!
Customize our template letter to the editor with your story to raise awareness of the need to increase federal funding to find new treatments and a cure for ALS! Together, we can make a difference and bring us closer to a future where ALS can be a livable disease.
Our mission is to discover treatments and a cure for ALS, and to serve, advocate for, and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest. [Learn More]