Project ALS is a
non-profit organization whose mission is to identify and support leading scientific research toward the first effective treatments and a cure for
ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND) or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that results in the progressive loss of motor neurons that control voluntary muscles. ALS is the most com ...
. Founded in 1998 by
Jenifer Estess
Jenifer Estess (February 17, 1963 – December 16, 2003) was a Moline, Illinois-born theatre producer. She began her career as an actor after graduating from New York University with a B.A. in drama.
Estess was a co-founder of Naked Angels theatr ...
, Valerie Estess, Meredith Estess, and Julianne Hoffenberg, Project ALS recruits scientists and doctors to work together toward a better understanding of ALS and other closely related neuro-degenerative diseases.
History
Project ALS was founded in 1998 as a
non-profit organization when
Jenifer Estess
Jenifer Estess (February 17, 1963 – December 16, 2003) was a Moline, Illinois-born theatre producer. She began her career as an actor after graduating from New York University with a B.A. in drama.
Estess was a co-founder of Naked Angels theatr ...
, a 35-year-old New York theater and film producer, was diagnosed with ALS. Historically, scientists working separately on various aspects of the disease conducted ALS research. Project ALS changed that approach by requiring that researchers and doctors work together, share data openly, and meet research milestones.
Project ALS's Research Advisory Board (RAB) brings together accomplished scientists to seek out the most promising research and set the agenda for the entire research field.
Celebrity involvement
The following people and groups have been involved with Project ALS:
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Julianna Margulies
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Anne Meara
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Caroline Rhea
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Debora Spar
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Thomas Jessel
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Northport High School
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Donna Hanover
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Edie Falco
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Ben Stiller
References
External links
Project ALS
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Charities based in New York City
Organizations established in 1998
Health charities in the United States
Neurology organizations
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Medical and health organizations based in New York City
1998 establishments in New York City