University personalities are soaked with ice water as they do their part to raise awareness for ALS but as the Ice Bucket Challenge gains recognition on social media, to people like Julie Harvey it means so much more than a few likes on Facebook.
Since being diagnosed two years ago with ALS, everyday tasks like getting out of bed or changing clothes is harder for Harvey without a little help from her husband Roy.
“You just depend on that person and you can’t function without that person,” Julie Harvey said.
Paying for treatment and equipment has cost the couple more than $8,000.
The ALS Association of Baton Rouge helps families in need like the Harveys by raising funds and awareness. It’s a job much easier now due to the viral effect of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.
Jamie Craig, director of Development & Community Relations for the ALS Association’s Louisiana/Mississippi Chapter said she enjoys her job.
“I know that every single day I have the power to change someones life and it may sound corny or trite but its true,” Craig said.
The national ALS Association received $88.5 million in donations from July 29 to August 26. The number dwarfs the $2.6 million donated as the same time in 2013.
Julie Harvey said she is happy that the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has increased donations. The Ice Bucket Challenge has increased awareness for the disorder.
“People are talking about it, before people didn’t even know what ALS was,” Harvey said.

Gallery • 3 Photos

Jacquelyn Masse

Mayor of Central Louisiana Junior Shelton does the ice bucket challenge.