Pete Frates

Pete Frates was an American baseball player and advocate known for his role in popularizing the Ice Bucket Challenge, a viral fundraising campaign for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research. Diagnosed with ALS in 2012, Frates became a prominent figure in raising awareness about the disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. His efforts, along with others, led to significant donations for ALS research, ultimately generating over $200 million. Frates's legacy continues to inspire those fighting ALS and highlights the importance of advocacy in medical research and awareness.