Peter Frates, inspiration for the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, dies at 34 – NBC News

Peter Frates, the individual with ALS who inspired and championed a social media project to raise awareness of the neurodegenerative illness, has died at the age of 34.

Frates’ family confirmed the facts of his death Monday in a press unencumber that mirrored on his braveness and resiliency in the face of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.

“A pure born leader and the final teammate, Pete modified into once a role model for all, in particular young athletes, who regarded as a lot as him for his bravery and unwavering particular spirit in the face of adversity,” the observation acknowledged. “He modified into once a noble fighter who inspired us all to employ our skills and strengths in the provider of others.”

His family also acknowledged that Frates never complained about his diagnosis and as a replacement saw his illness as a likelihood.

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Frates modified into once a weak Boston College baseball participant who modified into once identified with ALS in 2012. He helped produce a viral social media sensation, the Ice Bucket Challenge, that raised each awareness and funds for the illness.

The project raised more than $200 million worldwide, in accordance to the ALS Association, as participants shared videos the build they had buckets of ice water poured on themselves. Of us that participated then challenged chums to enact the the same, along with inquiring for a donation to the ALS Association.

ALS is more continuously sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s Disease, in honor of the Unique York Yankees first baseman who modified into once identified with the dysfunction in 1939. Gehrig retired from knowledgeable baseball two days later, and eminent in his neatly-known speech to the overall public that he modified into once the “luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

Brian Frederick, vice president of communications for the ALS affiliation, suggested NBC News Monday that more than 17 million participants participated in the project and resulted in 2.5 million donors to ALS causes.

Frates’ alma mater, Boston College, offered condolences to his family in a press unencumber Monday.

“He accredited his illness and devoted the final years of his existence to raising awareness of ALS and helping to raise cash for a treatment,” the college acknowledged. “He is a role model for all BC students and a appreciated settle on our campus.”

Frates is survived by his most indispensable other, Julie, and young daughter Lucy. His family has requested that folks take in mind donating to the Peter Frates Family Foundation in his memory.