ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system, characterized by the death of the motor neurons (specific nerve cells). ALS results in gradual, progressive weakness and wasting away of voluntary muscles, often leading to total paralysis. The life expectancy of a person living with ALS is usually two to five years from diagnosis.

The cause or causes of ALS are not known and there is no known cure but advances in medical technology are allowing people with ALS to lead more independent and productive lives. Research continues in hopes of discovering a cause and a cure.

At any given time, our Chapter serves 500 people with ALS throughout the state of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Superior, Wisconsin.

On average each week in Minnesota two people are diagnosed with ALS and two people die from the disease.

On average in North Dakota each month, one person is diagnosed with ALS and one person dies from the disease.

On average in South Dakota each month, one to two people are diagnosed with ALS and one to two people die from the disease.

The cause is unknown, and there is no cure for ALS.

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