MDA’s ALS Division is a world leader in the search for treatments and therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The ALS Division also provides practical support and expert health care for those living with ALS. 

In this section, you’ll find up-to-date information about ALS, as well as many helpful resources. This information has been compiled with input from researchers, physicians and people affected by the disease.

As you learn more about ALS, always remember that you’re not alone. MDA’s ALS Division is here for you and your family, standing ready to provide help and hope. There is a place for you in the MDA ALS community.

MDA provides support by:

• funding ALS research projects around the world;
• providing expert health care at 200 MDA clinics and 43 MDA/ALS centers;
• providing timely, regular information about research progress through ALS News Online;
• providing practical support, such as help in locating and repairing durable medical equipment;
• advocating for increased funding for ALS research, and accelerating research progress through partnerships with federal agencies and policymakers;
• helping individuals, families and caregivers connect with other members of the ALS community through support groups, and online social networks such as Facebook and Twitter;
• helping you mobilize a personal support network through the care coordination tool myMuscleTeam; and
• connecting you with community and educational resources.

The award-winning MDA/ALS Newsmagazine is an online only-publication dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals and families with a diagnosis of ALS. The magazine site is updated each week with news, features and blogs. Once you sign up with your local MDA office, you also will begin receiving MDA’s quarterly Quest magazine in the mail, at no cost to you. In addition, the Quest website offers an enhanced version of the print magazine, with additional news articles and features not available in print. In both magazines, you’ll find news about research and health care, helpful products and devices, social and family issues, and more.

In addition, MDA will keep you informed through e-alerts, educational publications and speakers, seminars, videos and newsletters.

Many people find that working with others to defeat ALS brings them a feeling of empowerment. Please know that there’s a role for you in the fight against ALS.

The MDA ALS community — comprised of individuals living with ALS, as well as families, friends, researchers, clinicians and MDA staff — is strong and dedicated, with opportunities for involvement at all levels. When you’re ready, become involved by:

• connecting with others affected by ALS;
• participating in MDA’s “Take 5” advocacy initiative;
• enrolling in ALS registries and clinical trials;
• participating in community awareness and fundraising events;
• and much more.

Please know that there’s an important role for every member of the ALS community. We urge you to contact your local MDA office to learn more.

An ALS diagnosis does not mean an end to your hopes and dreams. Changes, challenges and adaptations lay ahead, but also opportunity, fulfillment, joy and hope for a future free of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Never forget that MDA is here to help.