MDA EVENTS HIGHLIGHT ALS

TUCSON, Ariz., May 1, 2004 — The Muscular Dystrophy Association, the recognized world leader in research and services for people affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commemorates the 13th annual national ALS Awareness Month in May.

ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) destroys the nerve cells that control muscles in healthy adults, ultimately causing complete paralysis while leaving mental function intact. Death often comes within two to five years of diagnosis, although some people survive longer. More than 30,000 Americans have ALS.

During ALS Awareness Month, MDA will hold events designed to educate the public about the disease, MDA services and its search for a cure. MDA also is issuing a new series of video and print public service announcements featuring Christopher and Reda Rice of Houston, co-chairpersons of MDA’s ALS Division.

“The good news is that today, people with ALS are surviving longer than ever,” said Chris Rice, 39. Rice, father of three young children, received an ALS diagnosis in 2001. “ALS Awareness Month is a way for us to remind people of the ongoing struggle against this disease.”

Improved technology, including respiratory equipment, communication devices and feeding tubes, has enabled people with ALS to lead longer and more complete lives. Meanwhile, MDA research is zeroing in on cellular mechanisms that may be able to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

In addition to funding more ALS research than any other U.S. voluntary health agency, MDA leads in services for people with ALS. The Association maintains some 230 hospital-affiliated clinics across the country, as well as 30 MDA/ALS centers at major medical institutions.

MDA also provides those with ALS and their families with support groups, educational materials, loans of medical equipment, and financial help buying wheelchairs and communication devices.

MDA’s ALS Division holds Internet chats and posts cutting-edge information about the disease. Go to www.als-mda.org.