The ALS Bucket Challenge

[PalJoey]

Update from ALSA: $53.3. million in donations compared to $2.2 million during the same time period last year (July 29 to August 21)

Anyone continuing to put down this fundraiser is just being a douche.

[FindingNamo]

Were we meant to feel it should be stopped because of arcing electricity shooting through the air in Kentucky?

[PalJoey]

That's Liza's Douchebag for you.

[SNAFU]

The amount of money raised in such a short time is amazing! Congrats to all who participated!

[NYadgal]

I look forward to the opportunities that the new frontiers of social media bring our way.
Think of the good that can be done when we harness the power of it in a positive manner!

PalJoey, I have no doubt your father would be very, very moved by this.

I hope this brings some small amount of comfort to all who are touched by this disease.

[FindingNamo]

That photo's great by the way, PalJoey. I see where you get your snazz.

[Reginald Tresilian]

PJ's dad had pizazz in spades (as did his mom). His was a big personality that required some navigation, but I loved him, and I wish he were still around. His diagnosis was the first I'd heard of this awful disease.

[HorseTears]

Thanks to those of you have shared you personal stories of your experiences with ALS. At this point, describing this campaign as anything but a PR and fundraising triumph is ridiculous.

And, at the risk of being a bit shallow. I have ZERO complaints about this one...
Ramin Karimloo's muscles take the ice bucket challenge

[YouWantitWhen????]

I got challenged by one of my best friends from law school. I had no problem completing the ice bucket challenge and donating. Even used recycled water because of our drought. If this creates more awareness and research moves forward, then great. And for those currently dealing with the condition, or sharing stories of loved ones who have battled it thank you. It made donating and dumping a bucket of ice water on my head that much easier.

[PalJoey]

Today's total: $62.5 million

[SNAFU]

Wouldn't it be awesome to reach $100,000,000.00? Let us see if the interst can keep up another week!

[kec]

I add my thanks to those who have shared your personal stories. Canmark, I add my good wishes to the rest. I haven't been challenged, but I have made a donation. Snafu I, too, hope it gets to that much.

This was my favorite of the videos thus far:
Benedict Cumberbatch Ice Bucket Challenge

[sabrelady]

Neil Gaiman was challenged by his wife Amanda Palmer

lil different
without the kit

[kec]

That one was good too -- and he nominated Karen Gillan.

[PalJoey]

The official YouTube page.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRwNg_84r1MxM9CZ45XKjCA

[FindingNamo]

I like Neil Gaiman's beard. Cambridge was more fun when he and Amanda lived there.

[sabrelady]

Cambridge was more fun when he and Amanda lived there.

I could believe that esp about her!

[FindingNamo]

Speaking of. And she has an emotional personal connection. And lots of friends.

[sabrelady]

"and lots of friends."
Have u seen her blog?

She knows sh!tons of peeps from every freaking where!

[FindingNamo]

I had to stop reading her blog a number of years ago, in order to continue to enjoy her performances and recordings.

[PalJoey]

That Amanda Palmer video was one of the most moving--and the surprise ending was one of the most exhilarating!

[FindingNamo]

I agree. She's showbiz.

[canmark]

Thanks for all the good wishes!

About a year ago, not long after I had been diagnosed with ALS, I wrote this piece for Outsports.com: http://www.outsports.com/2013/9/24/4766294/my-als-story-mark-kari-diagnosed

Recently, Cyd Ziegler, cofounder of Outsports.com, did the ice bucket challenge in my honor while at the Gay Games in Cleveland: http://www.outsports.com/2014/8/12/5995501/ice-bucket-challenge-gay-games-pool

[NYadgal]

Canmark,

Thank you for sharing that informative, moving, brave and honest article. It's hard for us to imagine what others go through and your article was eye-opening and moved me deeply.

Congratulations on the recognition/dedication of the ice-bucket challenge in your honor! With the fundraising you've done, I imagine this increased awareness and the money raised makes you feel proud.

I continue to send you my best wishes, and pray for your strength and for a 'different life' filled with love.

[Jay Lerner-Z]

Canmark, I want to say something supportive but I can't even begin to think what to say. Sending good vibes and all that jazz. I'll donate again soon.

I've been reading a pretty remarkable book these past few days. A relative recommended it a while back but I've only just picked it up since this icebucket hoopla - strongly recommended to anyone who wants to get further insight.


It's Not Yet Dark

[PalJoey]

I finally got it together to read your excellent article, Mark--descriptions of the progress of the disease take me right back to where I was during my father's journey: witnessing, helping when I could, feeling helpless when I couldn't help.

I was very moved by your writing and honored that you chose to share it with us. For what it's worth, I'm sure my father would have read it and said something along the lines of "He's one heckuva guy."

As for me, I'll just repeat this line of yours that struck me: "In the future, I may be in a state where I can't speak or write anymore, so I want to say it now: Thank you!"

All I'll add is: Keep writing.