Uncovering the meaning of the Ice Bucket Challenge

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 09/09/2014 (4372 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I’ve taken part in many fundraisers. I’ve attended socials, walked, biked, skated, swam and canvassed door-to-door. But this is the first time I’ve dumped ice water over my head.

I’m referring to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. The process is similar to that of a chain letter. Someone nominates you, you take part, you nominate your friends to participate.

But this was an easy challenge, compared to the life-changing prognosis for individuals diagnosed with ALS and their families. ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) is a fatal, rapidly-progressive neuromuscular disease that affects more than 275 Manitobans.

Thankfully, we have a very special source of ALS support right here in St. James. The Brummitt-Feasby ALS House on Kirby Drive provides 24-hour specialized care in a supportive and caring environment.

If you so choose, donations can be sent directly to ALS Manitoba: www.alsmb.ca. As of Labour Day weekend, the Ice Bucket Challenge had raised over $100 million for the ALS Association in the U.S., and almost $12 million in Canada.

There are many folks who travel difficult paths, whether or not of their own making. All over the world, there are populations in the throes of conflict. Yet, even with these varied situations, we all share the need for human connection. Belonging to at least one group is necessary to ensure a successful community of healthy individuals. Alone, we cannot hope to accomplish much on the global scale.  

But it becomes more promising when you involve a network of similar thinkers. I was inspired to hear that many Winnipeggers have been gathering on Tuesdays for thoughts of peace at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Some are praying according to their faiths. Others are simply coming together for a few moments of positive thought in an effort to affect the winds of change. 

My challenge to everyone reading this column is don’t be afraid to think out of the box and to make a difference.

Alone, a task may seem insurmountable, and the problems of the world too huge to address. But with the help of family, friends, even complete strangers, anything is possible.

Wanda Prychitko is a community correspondent for St. James-Assiniboia. Contact wprychitko@yahoo.ca