The Ice Bucket Challenge helped raise $115 million dollars two summers ago for the A.L.S. Association. These fund were divided into different part such as, 67% went to the research, 20% to patient and community services, 9% to public and professional education, 2% to fund raisers, and another 2% to payment fees. Researchers have discovered a new gene by the name of NEK1 that contributed to the disease A.L.S., which shows about 3% of A.L.S. cases were affected. According to the vice president of communication and development for the A.L.S. Association, "Treatment won't be limited".
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/28/health/the-ice-bucket-challenge-helped-scientists-discover-a-new-gene-tied-to-als.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fscience&action=click&contentCollection=science®ion=stream&module=stream_unit&version=latest&contentPlacement=5&pgtype=sectionfront
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/ice-bucket-challenge-funds-discovery-gene-linked-als-article-1.2726954
So crazy and wonderful that something that seemed silly and fun on Facebook made such a difference in the world of science! Hopefully they continue to use the money to work towards a cure!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea that the ice bucket challenge raised so much money. Its insane that something that goes viral can raise so much awareness to a good cause. Hopefully the newly discovered gene NEK1 can become the lead necessary to find a vital cure for the A.L.S disease.
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