Date(s) Canada: June (annually)
United States: May (annually) Years active Canada: 26
United States: 24 Inaugurated Canada: 1990
United States: 1992 | ||
ALS Awareness Month is a campaign to spread awareness of and raise funds for research for a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
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Canada
In Canada, June has been declared as ALS Awareness Month by the Canadian Minister of Health. In 2015, it was recognized by the House of Commons.
United States
In the United States, the campaign is observed every year in the month of May. It is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Advocacy
During this month, the ALS Association sponsors the National ALS Advocacy Day and Public Policy Conference and leads a delegation of people with ALS, their caregivers and other advocates to Capitol Hill to urge legislators to support measures to help find treatments and a cure.
Postage stamp
In 2008, the ALS Association created a commemorative U.S. postage stamp to promote ALS Awareness Month through Zazzle.
Georgia
In 2003, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue declared May to be ALS Awareness Month in the state. He repeated this action in 2011. In addition, Governor Nathan Deal in 2012, 2013, and 2014. In 2016, Governor Deal declared January 26 to be ALS Awareness Day in Georgia.
Minnesota
In 2012, 2013, and 2014, Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton declared May to ALS Awareness Month in the state.
North Dakota
In both May 2014 and May 2016, the Governor of North Dakota issued proclamations declaring May to be ALS Awareness Month in the state.
Ohio
On January 13, 2012, the 129th General Assembly of Ohio designated the month of May as ALS Awareness Month for the state.