Ice bucket Challenge

The Ice Bucket Challenge

Today's most trending news of all, the 'Ice Bucket challenge' has surely caught the attention of millions worldwide. These short 'Ice bucket challenge' videos have been flooding social networking sites like Facebook, twitter and Instagram ever since early 2014. But what is this challenge exactly? Is is really worth it? What may be the consequences? I aim at resolving all your queries through this blog post.

What is the ice-bucket challenge?

It's an effort to raise awareness of ALS where participants must dump a bucket of ice cold water and then dare someone to do the same. If they can't, the alternative is to donate $100 to the ALS association. 

What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. It is a fatal disease. 

Statistics: About 20% people with ALS live 5 years or more, up to 10% live more than 10 years and about 5% live up to 20 years after diagnosis.

What are its consequences?

Critics have argued that 'ice bucket challenge' is one of the worst way to spread awareness or raise money for a cause as a lot and a lot of water is being wasted by millions of people worldwide. So what can be the solution? Well, in my opinion if someone really wants to be the part of this trending fad then they should even take the pain of collecting the water and later using it for watering wild plants or for some other suitable usage. So surely, when there's a will there is a way and thus enjoy and be a good citizen too. 

What does the news say?

The viral Ice Bucket Challenge craze has seen charity donations soar by more than £37million. The internet dare sees a person pour a bucket of freezing ice water over their head to raise money. 

Since the challenge went viral, the ALS Association, who raise money for Lou Gehrig’s Disease, have seen a £36.26m increase in funds – soaring to 37.71m from £1.45m during the same period last year.

And yes, this challenge has gained some serious attention with celebrities doing it too. So far a raft of key figures and celebrities have participated, including Ben Stiller, Ricky Gervais, Justin Timberlake, Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates. For list of other participants, go to: List of participants.

President and CEO of The ALS Association Barbara J. Newhouse, said: “The ALS Association is extremely grateful for the generosity of these donors, and for the actions of several people who initiated and spread this incredible viral effort.

“Never before have we been in a better position to fuel our fight against this disease. Increased awareness and unprecedented financial support will enable us to think outside the box.” Do visit the site alsa.org for more information.

Compiled by Deepali Yadav