#USA #New York #ALS Research #Target ALS #Dan Doctoroff

Target ALS Launches "Behind Every Breakthrough" Campaign for ALS Awareness Month

In celebration of ALS Awareness Month this May, Target ALS has initiated a compelling multimedia campaign titled Behind Every Breakthrough. This effort aims to illuminate the global advancements being made in ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) research and to highlight the remarkable individuals behind these efforts, including scientists, caregivers, advocates, and donors.

Significance of the Campaign

The campaign, as described by Manish Raisinghani, CEO of Target ALS, recognizes that every step forward in ALS research stems from the relentless efforts of committed individuals, whether they are working in laboratories, clinical settings, or within communities. Raisinghani underscores, "This campaign is about appreciating these dedicated people and celebrating the possibilities that emerge when we dismantle barriers and put resources toward innovative ideas."

Target ALS was established in 2013 by Dan Doctoroff, who has had a personal journey deeply intertwined with this cause. After losing his father and uncle to the debilitating effects of ALS, Dan's mission became clear: to foster innovation in ALS treatment by bridging the gaps between academic research, pharmaceutical development, and biotechnology.

In a poignant twist, Dan himself was diagnosed with ALS in 2021. Instead of retreating, he actively enhanced Target ALS into a global hub that has successfully initiated ten clinical trials and various drug discovery projects. He stated, "This is a devastating disease, and there has been little hope for patients, including my family members. However, the promising developments of recent years give us the chance to significantly alter the trajectory of this disease and positively impact lives."

A Month of Stories and Milestones

The Behind Every Breakthrough campaign aligns with several key events in ALS research:

1. Target ALS Annual Meeting (May 6–8, Boston, MA): This marks the largest gathering of members from the ALS Innovation Ecosystem, including over 850 participants from academia, pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, venture capitalists, and nonprofit organizations. This meeting emphasizes the importance of sharing unpublished research and catalyzing new partnerships, expediting the transition of research from laboratories to practical applications in patient care.

2. ALS Global Research Initiative (AGRI): This initiative marks a significant global collaboration aimed at broadening the diversity of ALS research. Through its Global Natural History Study, AGRI seeks to gather crucial data from underrepresented populations, promising new insights into ALS that ensure effective treatments in the future. Interested individuals can find more information on AGRI's dedicated webpage.

Personal Stories Shaping the Future

May will also see Target ALS releasing a series of impactful stories and videos across various digital platforms, illustrating the human experiences powering this research:

• - Innovative scientists who are driving the new frontier of ALS treatment.
• - Participation insights from individuals living with ALS, including a former researcher who now contributes as a healthy control in AGRI's study.
• - Donors and advocates whose personal journeys provide vital funding and raise awareness crucial for research advancement.

These narratives reveal that breakthroughs in ALS research are not merely scientific achievements; they stem from shared human experiences and collaborative efforts.

Embracing a Collaborative Future

Today, about one in every 400 people will receive an ALS diagnosis, and many will only live two to five years post-diagnosis. Target ALS's campaign emphasizes that with bold ideas and a genuine commitment to partnership and inclusion, the tide can shift towards meaningful progress.

Throughout May, the public is invited to join Target ALS in exploring these breakthroughs and becoming part of this transformative journey. To engage with the campaign and discover ways to support this important cause, visit the Target ALS Behind Every Breakthrough campaign page and follow them on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

About Target ALS

Target ALS is a groundbreaking medical research foundation that aims to eliminate barriers preventing advancements in ALS research. Since its inception in 2013, the organization has made strides by fostering an inclusive research environment that facilitates collaboration across disciplines, providing access to advanced research tools, and mobilizing industry involvement. With an unwavering commitment to optimism and innovation, Target ALS is dedicated to transforming ALS into a manageable condition, striving for a future where everyone can lead fulfilling lives.

For media inquiries, please reach out to Stephanie Ishoo, Manager of Research Communications and Marketing at Target ALS.