TUCSON, Ariz., - As the recognized world leader in research and services for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the Muscular Dystrophy Association marks the 14th annual national ALS Awareness Month this May.

Attacking the nerve cells that control muscle cells, ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease) weakens muscles until they're nonfunctional and paralysis takes place. Though mental function is generally untouched, death usually occurs within two to five years of diagnosis. ALS affects more than 30,000 American adults.

During May, MDA offices across the country will hold events that focus on educating the public about ALS, MDA services and its search for a cure. Also provided by MDA are TV and print public service announcements featuring the co-chairpersons of MDA's ALS Division, Christopher and Reda Rice of Houston.

MDA also will commemorate ALS Awareness Month by releasing Everyday Life With ALS: A Practical Guide, a new book designed to help those affected by ALS manage their daily lives with the disease.

"Every day is a struggle with ALS, but it's comforting to know that people with the disease are living longer and more fulfilling lives," said Chris

Rice, 40, who was found to have ALS in 2001. AALS Awareness Month helps us educate people about the seriousness of this disease and remind them that

ALS doesn't discriminate."

Respiratory equipment, feeding tubes and communication devices are just some of the technological advances that are enabling people with ALS to lead longer and more complete lives. While helping people obtain these devices, MDA researchers are working hard to find treatments to slow or stop the disease's progression.

Maintaining some 235 hospital-affiliated clinics across the country, as well as 34 MDA/ALS centers at major medical institutions, MDA leads the country in providing services for people with ALS. The Association also funds more ALS research than any other U.S. voluntary health organization.

By providing support groups, educational materials, medical equipment loans and more, MDA shows its dedication to families affected by ALS. MDA's ALS Division Web site, at www.als.mdausa.org, holds Internet chats and posts cutting-edge information about the disease.