Peter Frates, whose battle against ALS gained international social media prominence and raised millions of dollars through the viral Ice Bucket Challenge, died Monday at age 34.
Frates died surrounded by his family, according to a statement from Boston College.
Frates graduated from Boston College in 2007. In 2012, he was hired to captain the school’s baseball team.
That same year, at age 27, the Massachusetts native was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Credit: Charles Krupa/Associated Press
Credit: Charles Krupa/Associated Press
ALS affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord as it attacks muscles and makes them weaker. It has no cure.
Frates and fellow ALS victim Pat Quinn created the Ice Bucket Challenge, a viral sensation on social media that led to about 17 million people around the world dousing themselves with buckets of ice water. The challenge raised awareness and more than $220 million in donations for research.
In December 2014, he and Quinn were nominated for “Person of the Year” by Time magazine. Also in 2014, Frates was a co-recipient of Sports Illustrated’s Inspiration of the Year. ESPN SportsCenter’s "Pete's Challenge" was nominated for an Emmy that year.
“Pete was an inspiration to so many people around the world who drew strength from his courage and resiliency,” the college said. “A natural born leader and the ultimate teammate, Pete was a role model for all, especially young athletes, who looked up to him for his bravery and unwavering positive spirit in the face of adversity. He was a noble fighter who inspired us all to use our talents and strengths in the service of others.”
Frates is survived by his wife, a daughter, his parents, a brother and a sister.
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