The ALS Association symbolizes the hopes of people everywhere that Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis will one day be a disease of the past - relegated to historical status, studied in medical textbooks, conquered by the dedication of thousands who have worked ceaselessly to understand and eradicate this perplexing killer.

Until that day comes, The ALS Association relentlessly pursues its mission to help people living with ALS and to leave no stone unturned in search for the cure of the progressive neurodegenerative disease that took the life and name of Baseball Legend Lou Gehrig.

As the only not-for-profit voluntary health agency dedicated solely to the fight against ALS, we direct the largest privately-funded research enterprise engaged to uncover the mystery of a disease that affects as many as 30,000 annually. With more than 5,600 people diagnosed each year - an average of 15 new cases each day - our mission is urgent. The search for answers knows no bounds.

The ALS Association's far-reaching efforts extend to Capitol Hill and some of the world's finest research laboratories. We've awarded nearly $27 million since 1991 for scientific and clinical management research. We've brought the ALS community the historic Medicare waiver of the 24-month waiting period and a 100% increase in funding since our advocacy campaign began.

But nowhere does this battle reach deepest than in our work with ALS patients and their families. We embrace thousands of those stricken with the disease with the world's most comprehensive program of care and services. Our network of 40 chapters coordinates services with care and compassion - making a difference in the lives of people with Lou Gehrig's disease. Our hallmark of quality is exemplified in centers and clinics that deliver advanced care and meet The ALS Association's rigorous criteria for certification.

Our accomplishments are made possible by the generosity of others. From the smallest donation to the largest gift, donors touch the ALS community with hope for the future. This terrible disease knows no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries. It can strike anyone at any time.

Despite the mysterious nature of ALS, breathtaking advances in science, medicine and technology are shaping a future of unparalleled hope for those with ALS. The ALS Association is at the forefront in this new world, encouraging young scientists to combine new thinking with these advances to unlock the mysteries of ALS - to push the envelope in therapy and scientific research.

The ALS Association is waging the war against this killer 24/7. Every 90 minutes, an American dies of ALS. Time isn't on the side of those afflicted. Fighting ALS is a full-time job.