Campaign to Increase the Awareness and Understanding of Lou Gehrig's Disease Reaches 22 U...(Q For ALS Awareness initiative will als...)

"In addition to raising research funds, this program aims to ensure that new generations of Americans know Gehrig's story and his contributions to the game. Lou Gehrig deserves recognition for much more than the disease that took his life. He is a hero to many, for both the way he lived, and for this courage in confronting ALS. We must find a way to make ALS a thing of the past," said Michael Goldsmith, an ALS patient, ALS TDI Ambassador and one of the inspirations of the MLB led 4ALS Awareness campaign.

Following his diagnosis, Mr. Goldsmith wrote and had published an article in Newsweek which led to an article in the New York Times - both called for greater awareness of Lou Gehrig's disease and outlining how Major League Baseball could help. Major League Baseball's response was immediate and, the 4ALS Awareness campaign was launched by MLB. Working together with four major ALS organizations (ALS TDI, MDA's Augie's Quest, the ALS Association and Project A.L.S.) the 4ALS Awareness initiative has the chance to become one of the largest awareness events for the disease since Gehrig brought it to prominence seven decades ago.

On July 4, 2009, each home team will host an on-field reading of Gehrig's Farewell speech. All players will wear a "4ALS" patch on their chest and MLB will promote the effort in a variety of ways, including in-stadium promotions. In addition, MLB.com will conduct an online auction to raise funds for the cause, and Major League Baseball will continue to work with the four organizations to identify additional opportunities to raise funds and awareness.

For more information about ALS TDI's BBQ For ALS A
'/>"/>