THE ALS ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE: THE NEW TREND by Jegi Nero

Ever since the increased media attention in the US on June 30, 2014, the ALS ice bucket challenge has become the latest trend. The challenge involves dumping a bucket of ice water on someone’s head to promote awareness of the disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and encouraging donations for research. It became the talk of the town.

Everyone talked about it especially in social networks which has increased curiosity among netizens. Its immediate attention has made everyone wanting to try the challenge themselves. Even the most popular celebrities  participated and donated.

The mechanics of  the challenge states that nominated participants are to be filmed while a bucket of ice water is poured on their heads, then they nominate others to do the same. This made the act a trending topic not only in the US but also in other countries. In short, ALS Ice Bucket Challenge is spreading all over the world.

Many videos have been uploaded in Facebook, Youtube and the like in just a couple of months. The challenge also says that  nominated participants only has 24 hours to comply or forfeit by way of a charitable financial donations; but the participant who has done the challenge within 24 hours can still donate for the ALS. This is one reason why the association handling the Ice Bucket Challenge has never been this happy since they have received $100 million and counting.Most of the donations were received from celebrities.

And with that kind of amount, they could do researches and find a cure for the disease, sad to say. 

But here’s the catch, most people do the challenge without mentioning in the video that they should donate money to the association. They did it only for the sake of fun and trend. 

Those who did the challenge ignorantly, have taken away the purpose of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Cold water is poured onto someone's head because the numbness one feels when the water is poured is the same feeling the patients feel.

Sad to say people at times, forget purpose for fun and non-sense.

No one blames you if you're curious just make sure you carry out its purpose. Donate, do not only nominate.

- Photos from Google Images