On the recordApril 12, 2016
It is estimated that over 30,000 Americans are living with the progressive neurodegenerative disease and condition ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease, at any time. That includes dozens in my Pennsylvania district, including Frank Mongiello and former Naval Officer Matthew Bellina. For those impacted by this disease, the toll is extraordinary, not only on their own well-being, but on their family and their finances. Thankfully for Matt and Frank, individuals like Jim Worthington and members of the Newtown Athletic Club have stepped up to offer emotional support and raised more than $200,000 for their cause. While these actions show the commendable efforts of one community, there is more that can be done on their behalf here in Washington. Next week, I will join Matt and Frank in the Nation's Capital to urge not only for essential ALS funding, but for access to experimental drugs. The bipartisan Right to Try Act would remove the barriers to these trial-stage medications for those with a terminal disease like ALS. The compassion of our communities and the long-term benefits of research must not prevent us from taking every single step possible in the here and now to care for those battling ALS. ____________________
