Some thought it was a stunt or just a way of raising awareness, but the 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge brought about more change than we think.
The ice bucket challenge raised $15 million dollars which helped fund a scientific discovery in the progressive neurodegenerative disease ALS.

Almost everyone knows what the ice bucket challenge was, if they did not actually participate themeselves. The challenge consist of dumping a bucket of ice water on your head and then nominating others to do the same. More than 17 million people uploaded videos participating in this challenge. Those who may not have participated in the challenge viewed some form of it on social media. Celebrities participated as well with their videos getting hundreds of thousands of views and likes. It may have been silly at the time but it paid off.

For those who thought it was a stunt, I am happy to say you are wrong! Scientist have found a gene that contributed to this disease called NEK1. In terms of the future, this means scientist can now develop gene therapy to treat the disease. 10% of ALS cases are affected by this inherited gene, however this is a huge step to new discoveries. ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal brain and spinal disease. This disease attacks the nerves that control movement and muscles so someone with this disease can not move, talk and eventually breathe. ALS kills a third of those diagnosed within a year of diagnosis. It is an extremely life threatening, rapid and progressive disease. Sometimes at this point in time it is hard to see the good in the world but in this case senario we should be so proud of the contributions we have made towards ALS. Nothing feels better than making a difference especially when you are having fun doing it. As of now there is unfortunately no cure, but we can only hope that this takes us steps closer that. The 2014 ice bucket challenge was more influential than we thought it was going to be. Those who participated, give yourself a pat on the back!