Bender Fitness: #ALSIceBucketChallenge

Hi Everyone!

By now you have probably seen the #ALSIceBucketChallenge tag show up all over your social media. My sister nominated Jesse and I, and we have accepted the challenge. I have nominated every Bender Fitness follower to participate in the challenge (as well as a few of my best friends!)

This is how the challenge works:

1. You have 24 hours after being nominated to complete the challenge.

2. You decide to complete the Ice Bucket Challenge and/or donate to ALS.

3. Nominate others to complete the challenge and continue raising funds and awareness for the ALS Association. 

4. If you accept my challenge I want to see it! Tag @BenderFitness on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and #ALSIceBucketChallenge #BenderFitness #TeamBender

In case you aren't familiar with ALS it is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects neurons of the brain and spinal cord. The progression of this disease leads to loss of ability to initiate and complete muscle control, and eventually death. The affected neurons are necessary for movement, breathing, speaking. The disease starts out with muscle weakness that can affect the limbs, speech, swallowing and breathing. Eventually, the neurons can no longer send signals at all and these abilities are lost. 

Average life expectancy after diagnosis is 2-5 years, although there are people who live much longer. 

Currently there are no ways to stop or cure ALS, although there are some promising therapies that have slowed down the progression, and even a few cases where the progression has ceased or reversed. Occupational Therapists often work with people living with ALS to help them maintain their functional abilities, and adapt their environment to help them continue to live full lives. 

This is an important cause. Please consider making a donation in any amount and/or joining in on the Ice Bucket Challenge. Jesse and I are donating, and both completed the challenge. 

Donate here: ALS Association Donation