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Since the Ice Bucket Challenge burst onto the scene in aid of ALS (Amyotrphic Lateral Sclerosis) there has been a constant stream of videos showing support from not only joe public but the celebrity world too. Yet as expected, the ALS challenge has also seen its fair share of backlash against the cause, which shot to fame via social media this July. So since everyone is so keen to have their say here is my opinion on what critics are calling a ‘charitable craze’…
As of Wednesday 27th August 2014, The ALS Association received $94.3 million in donations compared to the $2.7 million rasied during the same period last year. Donations have come from existing donors and 2.1 million new donors, all thanks to the popularity of the Ice Bucket Challenge.
Despite the challenge having undeniably raised a staggering amount of money for one of the most underfunded charities around, some critics claim the challenge is a waste of fresh water and is showing support for animal testing. Others are wailing in with, “Is the Ice Bucket Challenge Going to Cure ALS?” Um, no, if only it were that simple. Then theres the ALS protesters arguing this is really about feeding our own narcissism and that charity should be a cause not a craze. And I agree, but the reality is it is far easier to reach people with humour and laughter than it is with the depressing realties on illness.
Perhaps that’s why the celebrity faces associated with the ice bucket challenge are so effective. They bring normal people like you and me and stars like David Beckham closer together for a common shared cause and if that is narcissistic in your eyes then so be it. Because people are dying. ALS suffers are in for a fight and the last thing a charity like ALS needs is for people to give quietly. So upload your videos, hashtag away and don’t you dare feel bad about it.
Fear not anti ALS’er this too shall pass and your newsfeed can go back to endless OOTD selfies and piano playing cats, but until that happens watch this video and then tell me why taking a bucket of freezing water to the face is a waste of time. Click here to view the video
Still not convinced? Then I implore you, don’t take part. You have your right to your own opinion. You have the right to refuse the challenge, but please take your stand in silence because the rest of us really don’t care for your negativity. And while you aren’t freezing your tits off like the rest of us pray to God that you or someone you love will never have to face such a debilitating and life altering disease such as ALS. Because I can assure you a few ice cubes would be the least of your worries when the realisation is that there is no funding to make your life count.
I say if throwing a load of iced water over yourself in the name of disease perpetuates more giving, more change and more knowledge then lets get wet!
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By Sophie Maguire
