ALS Awareness Month: Why May Matters

May 1, 2025

May is ALS Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting research, and advocating for those affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. At SouthCo, we join the global community in shining a light on this devastating disease and encouraging everyone to get involved in the fight for a cure.

What is ALS?

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, ALS causes people to lose the ability to walk, eat, talk, and eventually breathe, as the connection between nerves and muscles is gradually lost. There is currently no cure for ALS, and treatments are limited, making ALS awareness and research crucial.

The Impact of ALS

Prevalence: Each year, about 5,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with ALS, and approximately 30,000 Americans are currently living with the disease.
Life Expectancy: The average life expectancy after diagnosis is two to five years, though some people live much longer.
Demographics: Most people diagnosed with ALS are between the ages of 40 and 70, with an average age of 55 at diagnosis. The disease is about 20% more common in men, but this gap narrows with age.
Notable Figures: ALS has affected well-known individuals such as baseball legend Lou Gehrig, physicist Stephen Hawking, and “SpongeBob SquarePants” creator Stephen Hillenburg.

The History of ALS Awareness Month

ALS Awareness Month was first recognized in May 1992 by a presidential proclamation. Since then, organizations like The ALS Association have led nationwide campaigns each May to educate the public, support families, and advocate for increased research funding.

How People Get Involved With ALS Awareness Month

Advocacy: The ALS Association organizes events like the National ALS Advocacy Day and Public Policy Conference, where advocates urge legislators to support ALS research and patient care.
Fundraising: Iconic campaigns such as the Ice Bucket Challenge have brought global attention and significant funding to ALS research.
Community Events: Throughout May, local and national organizations host walks, fundraisers, and educational events to bring people together in support of the ALS community.

Why ALS Awareness Matters

Raising awareness about ALS is essential for several reasons:

Education: Many people are still unfamiliar with ALS and its impact. Awareness campaigns help educate the public and dispel myths.
Research Funding: Increased awareness leads to more donations, which fund critical research for treatments and a cure.
Support: Awareness efforts connect patients and families with resources, support groups, and advocacy networks.

How You Can Help

Everyone can play a role in the fight against ALS. Whether you participate in a fundraising event, share information on social media, or advocate for policy change, your voice and actions make a difference.

Get involved this May—visit The ALS Association’s Get Involved page to learn how you can support ALS Awareness Month and help make ALS history.

Together, we can raise awareness, fund research, and support those living with ALS. Join SouthCo this May in making a difference.

Why Choose South Co?

South Co’s commitment to quality and professionalism sets us apart in the street sweeping industry. Our fleet of advanced sweeping equipment is operated by trained professionals who understand the specific needs of each type of street. Whether servicing residential areas, public streets, or industrial access roads, we deliver consistent, reliable results that meet the highest standards.

By choosing South Co, you’re partnering with a team that prioritizes the cleanliness, safety, and overall appearance of your streets. Our comprehensive street sweeping services are designed to meet the diverse needs of HOAs, municipalities, private communities, and industrial facilities, ensuring that every road under our care is meticulously maintained.