As defined by the ALS Association, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a “progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.” Our bodies have brain cells called motor neurons which are responsible for sending messages from the brain to our muscles. ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, targets motor neurons and, as the disease progresses, the cells begin to shrink and disappear, affecting the ability to walk, speak, swallow or breathe. The cause of the disease is not completely known; however, many organizations, such as LiveLikeLou, are working together to find a treatment that will slow down the progression of ALS and, eventually, find a cure.

LiveLikeLou cares about ALS and Lou Gehrig

In 2011, Neil and Suzanne Alexander established LiveLikeLou, a Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation, after Neil was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 46. Neil and his wife decided to use the next chapter in their life by launching the organization in the hopes to raise awareness of ALS, support scientific research targeted at finding a cure and provide care and comfort to ALS patients and their families in Western Pennsylvania.

Neil’s focus on finding a cure was not to help himself, but he “wanted to do it for the next guy…the next father, mother, sister or brother who receive this diagnosis.” Visit LiveLikeLou.org to learn more about their mission and to help support the cause.

Support Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

Committed to setting the standard at providing excellent pediatric care, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC has been recognized as one of the “Best Children’s Hospitals” in the United States by U.S. News for 2014-15. The organization is renowned for its outstanding clinical services, research programs and medical education. Children’s is here for every child; providing expert, compassionate care to kids in our community and beyond.