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), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is a neurodegenerative condition that leads to progressive paralysis and often results in death within two to five years. It emphasizes the alarming statistics surrounding ALS, including the fact that someone is diagnosed every ninety minutes and that military veterans are disproportionately affected by the disease.
The resolution also underscores the importance of raising public awareness about ALS, the need for access to new therapies and medical equipment, and the role of clinical trials in improving the quality of life for those affected. It acknowledges the significant contributions of the ALS Association, which has funded extensive research and projects aimed at finding a cure and improving the lives of individuals living with ALS. By adopting this resolution, the South Carolina House of Representatives seeks to promote understanding and support for those impacted by this devastating disease.