In 2014, Pat Quinn and Pete Frates created the Ice Bucket Challenge, raising funds for ALS research around the globe, while simultaneously raising awareness of the disease. It also raised hope in every person living with ALS - the disease finally had the public's attention, and it was no longer a fight battled in silence.
Today, Danny Getzlaf is relaunching the IBC here in Alberta, with a twist - last time, we were all able to participate in the warm summer months. It won't be quite as pleasurable in December! But don't we all need a little stress relief? And those of us with kids that we are quarantined with at the moment - doesn't throwing a bucket of ice-cold water on them sound fun some days?
All joking aside, being in isolation this month in Alberta we can all suddenly empathize with so many that live with ALS. Unable to do the things that used to be commonplace. Unable to go to places that were like our second homes. Unable to hug our loved ones - for many with ALS, to be able to just lift their arms and give someone a hug is something they will never experience again. And that is what this campaign is all about.
We do the Ice Bucket Challenge because we can - we can still lift our arms to raise the bucket; we can still take deep breaths after being doused by a surge of cold water; and we can still run away if the shock is too much. The Ice Bucket Challenge reminds us that despite our current Alberta quarantine, for most of us this is a temporary situation. For those with ALS, the restrictions are in no way voluntary and are even less temporary.
To participate in Danny Getzlaf's Christmas Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS, take a video of yourself (or your kids/grandkids) having a bucket of ice-cold water poured over your head (Danny’s includes a slow-mo replay, to give you an example). Then post on social media, make a donation here, and challenge at least three friends to do the same. Be as creative as you want! Please, of course, do not break any COVID regulations, or put yourself in any danger!
With the Christmas Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS, Danny is raising funds for the ALS Society of Alberta, which has continued through the COVID-19 pandemic to fulfill its mission: To make each day the best possible day for those living with and affected by ALS. The need this year is great, to ensure that the Society can keep providing the programs, support and equipment to Albertans living with the disease and their families in the future.
Who is Danny Getzlaf?
Diagnosed with ALS in November of 2017, Danny is a passionate advocate and fundraiser, dedicating much of his time to raising awareness and funds for ALS, and supporting those living with it. His passion and tireless dedication connect with so many in the community, and as such he is the perfect person to relaunch the campaign.
As the 2019 Edmonton Walk to End ALS Ambassador Danny expressed it as such:
“Like I mentioned before, I’m not a scientist like Stephen Hawking or a famous baseball player like Lou Gehrig. I’m just Danny from Morinville trying to do the best. Somehow I’ve been able to relate and touch people throughout the ALS community. They’re very supportive. They like what I’m doing. I’m just the voice of ALS patients this year. I’d like to continue that for years to come.”
Video credit: Stephen Dafoe of Soaring Pig Studios