Scrolling through your Facebook news feed during these past couple weeks it is almost impossible not to come across a video of an enthused classmate in a fraternity or sorority tank getting drenched by an icy bucket of good ‘ole H2O.
So what exactly is the point of these videos? While it does offer a bit of comedy to your quick hourly scroll through Facebook, it also serves a philanthropic purpose. By accepting the challenge and posting a video you are raising awareness for the progressive neurodegenerative disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, better known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
The disease affects the nerve cells within the brain, as well as the spinal cord. Eventually, ALS patients can become completely paralyzed. The ALS Association states that approximately 5,600 people in the United States are diagnosed with the disease each year.
Here are the steps of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge:
1. Get nominated by a friend via social media
2. Accept the challenge
3. Post a video of yourself explaining the purpose of the video, mentioning who nominated you.
4. In the video nominate three friends and/or family members that you would like to see complete the challenge.
5. Finally, the moment you (and the good people of Facebook) have been waiting for, go ahead and dump that bucket of ice water over your head (or have a friend dump it for you if you feel a lack in motivation). Spare yourself the embarrassment and try to keep your composure--the chilly water will be slightly alarming.
6. If you decide not to accept the challenge, you have an alternative option, which is to donate 100 dollars to ALS.
Having said this, if you end up being nominated for this challenge, live a little and take the plunge. Don’t be afraid to get a little wet, after all it is for a good cause! This is a fun way to show your support for a meaningful cause. You can also get creative with your responses by sporting your favorite Greek apparel. If you want to opt out of the ice water bucket you could switch it up by jumping into a frigid lake, or for a hilarious twist have someone push you in when you least expect it.
Also, if you have the means to do so, do both! Get freezing as well as give a donation, you won't regret it. If you are interested, please do so here.
However you choose to accept your Ice Bucket Challenge, remember that the cold shower is a symbol of your support for those fighting ALS. Good luck challengers!
