Chris Larkin's Inspiring Return to Texas A&M: Rallying the Fight Against ALS

Former Texas A&M tight end Chris Larkin, after receiving a life-changing diagnosis of ALS, has taken on a remarkable mission to inspire and unite his community in the fight against this devastating disease. Instead of succumbing to despair, Larkin has transformed his personal battle into a cause that resonates throughout Texas.

This autumn, Larkin is returning to his university roots to spearhead Aggieland Against ALS. This special fundraising initiative and festival brings together students, alumni, and the broader Texas A&M community to combat ALS. Kicking off in May during ALS Awareness Month, the event is set to reach its crescendo on November 1, 2025, at Aggie Park, featuring a variety of activities designed to engage the community and raise crucial funds for ALS research.

Among the highlights of the day will be a 5K run, a community walk from Aggie Park to Simpson Drill Field, and a sensational Ice Bucket Challenge with hopes of breaking the world record for the largest Ice Bucket Challenge staged on a college campus, with over 500 participants expected to join in.

For Larkin and his wife, Cissy, Aggieland Against ALS is not just about setting records; it is about making a tangible impact on the lives of those suffering from ALS. Their commitment to advocacy is evident not only through community events but also legislative achievements. The Larkins played a crucial role in the passage of The Chris Larkin ALS Act, a significant Texas law aimed at closing the Medicare coverage gap for individuals affected by this relentless disease.

Chris Larkin, living with ALS, stated, "ALS is no match for the Aggie Spirit. This event is about demonstrating that when Aggies come together, there is no challenge too great, not even ALS."

The Aggieland Against ALS initiative is made possible through the generous contributions of sponsors, including NOW Foods, major donors like Dave Coolidge, and supporters from the Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets, the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band, and Phi Delta Theta. Together, these groups are instrumental in rallying support from both on and off campus. Additionally, William Chris Vineyards, a local winery, will be on-site selling wine, with proceeds contributing to ALS research.

All proceeds raised through Aggieland Against ALS will be directed to the ALS Association, an organization at the forefront of advocacy, research, and care for individuals living with ALS—a progressive disease that gradually robs people of their ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe, ultimately leading to total paralysis and fatality within a few years post-diagnosis. Unfortunately, there is still no known cure for this affliction.

In the words of Lindsey McElwee, the managing director of development, “The Aggie community has always represented leadership and service. Every step taken, every dollar raised, and every Ice Bucket Challenge successfully completed at Aggieland Against ALS draws us closer to making ALS more manageable for everyone affected and ultimately towards finding a cure.”

For more information on registration or to learn how to participate in this monumental event, visit the ALS Association’s website.

About ALS

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that predominantly affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of voluntary muscle control, with the average life expectancy after diagnosis being two to five years. Veterans have been found to have a higher incidence of ALS compared to civilians.

About the ALS Association

As the leading organization dedicated to ALS, the ALS Association actively funds global research efforts, delivers support and resources to families dealing with ALS, and advocates for enhanced public policies. Its mission strives to make ALS a livable condition and pursue its cure.

About Aggieland Against ALS

Aggieland Against ALS unites the Texas A&M community and supporters statewide in a collective fundraising challenge aimed at combating ALS. This initiative starts each May in conjunction with ALS Awareness Month, culminating in a live event each fall at Texas A&M’s Aggie Park, allowing participants to raise financial support critical for continuing ALS research and patient care.