The Ball State University Department of Biology hosted a second ALS Day on Friday, September 13, 2024, in the Foundational Sciences Building. ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is a progressive, terminal neurodegenerative disease that causes a decline in motor neurons in the nervous system, resulting in a loss of muscular function and control. There is no cure for ALS yet.

This awareness-raising event was coordinated with the Todd Siebert Memorial Foundation, Dr. Philip Smaldino, the Biology department, and the Ball State University Foundation. 

Smaldino Lab Researches Treatments

The Smaldino ALS/FTD Research Project works to study these debilitating neurodegenerative diseases to provide more treatment options to those afflicted by it. There is no cure and no life-extending treatment options for these patients, so the patients and their families must endure unthinkable sufferings and hardships. The Smaldino lab seeks to understand these diseases at a cellular and molecular level and use this information to develop novel treatment strategies that extend patient survival and improve quality of life. 

“This event showcases the wonderful work Dr. Philip Smaldino, his lab, and our campus are doing to progress our understanding of ALS and develop more treatment options,” Dr. Tim Carter, Chair of the Department of Biology, said. “We seek to inspire those afflicted with ALS and their loved ones that there is hope for a cure and a better future. By supporting our research efforts, we can alleviate those suffering from ALS and improve their quality of life.”

Todd Siebert Memorial Foundation assists ALS Research Efforts

From left to right: Doug and Erin Eckerle and Dr. Philip Smaldino

The event began with a luncheon at noon with the patients and their caregivers. Dr. Smaldino gave tours of the Foundational Sciences Building and his students demonstrated how they use research mice to study these diseases. Afterwards, Dr. Smaldino gave a public research update seminar and Erin Eckerle, Chairman of the Todd Siebert Memorial Foundation, gave a moving reflection on what it is like to lose a loved one from ALS.  She also highlighted the great work that this foundation is doing to raise awareness and funds for ALS care and research.

In February 2024, the Siebert Foundation made a $20,000 donation to the Department of Biology. Notably, the Siebert Foundation hosts the “Big T” Golf Open, in honor of Mr. Todd Siebert who lost his life to ALS in 2021. This year, the event will be held on Saturday, Oct 5 in Batesville, Indiana.  More information and ticket sales can be found at bigtopen.com.