The bill H. 4504, introduced in the South Carolina House of Representatives, aims to officially recognize May 2025 as "ALS Awareness Month" in the state. The resolution highlights the severity of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is a neurodegenerative condition that leads to paralysis and often results in death within two to five years. It emphasizes the alarming rate at which individuals are diagnosed and the disproportionate impact of the disease on military veterans. The resolution also underscores the importance of access to new therapies, medical equipment, and communication technologies for those affected by ALS.
Furthermore, the resolution acknowledges the significant contributions of the ALS Association, which has funded extensive research and projects aimed at finding a cure and improving the quality of life for individuals living with ALS. By designating May as ALS Awareness Month, the bill seeks to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by those with the disease, support their families, and promote research efforts to eradicate ALS.