The bill S. 1082 is a Senate resolution that aims to officially recognize May 2026 as "ALS Awareness Month" in South Carolina. The resolution highlights the severity of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative condition that significantly impairs a person's ability to perform basic functions such as walking, talking, and breathing. It emphasizes the alarming statistics surrounding ALS, including the frequency of new diagnoses and the average survival time post-diagnosis, as well as the increased risk of developing ALS among military veterans.
The resolution also underscores the importance of access to new therapies, medical equipment, and communication technologies for individuals living with ALS, while recognizing the critical role of clinical trials in advancing treatment options. Furthermore, it acknowledges the efforts of the ALS Association, which has invested significantly in ALS research and projects aimed at improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease. By designating May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month, the resolution seeks to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by ALS patients and their families, and to promote support for ongoing research to find a cure.