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Is the Ice Bucket Challenge making a difference for ALS?

The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has been generating a lot of buzz across the country, but is it really helping fight against ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease?
Nicole Krejci took the challenge
Jordan Strack took the challenge

(Toledo News Now) - The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has been generating a lot of buzz across the country, but is it really helping fight against ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease?

The challenge started in Massachusetts and quickly spread to Ohio and the rest of the country. The idea is for people to raise awareness for ALS and encourage others to donate to the ALS Association by dumping buckets of ice water over their heads.

Toledo News Now's own Jordan Strack participated in the challenge, followed by members of the Toledo Police.

The police then called out other police and fire departments, and even Ohio Governor John Kasich has gotten involved.

With all this chilly fun to be had, Nicole Krejci of the Northern Ohio Chapter of the ALS Association says there is a serious side to this.

"That first few seconds of water is very similar [to how it feels] to be in a body that has ALS," Krejci said. "Everything is closed down. The nerves don't move – that chilling feeling."

Participants are encouraged to make a donation for ALS research. Krejci says the Northern Ohio Chapter has raised $60,000 more so far this year than they raised last year at this time. Nationally, the ALS Association is $15 million ahead!

Krejci participated in the challenge herself recently. She says ALS patients and their families will feel the benefits.

"Most people don't know that they can turn to a chapter for support, for medical devices that are needed, for the families, for counseling, for support groups," she said.

She says it's best to donate to your local ALS chapter. Click here to donate to the Northern Ohio Chapter.

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