The movement regained momentum after Hunter Mecum, a former Utah basketball player, posted a tribute video that caught Johnson’s attention. The campaign quickly moved from social media circles into the professional sports world, drawing participation from figures like Marshawn Lynch and LenDale White. Johnson’s daughter has already expanded the reach further, nominating LeBron James to participate in the challenge.

This resurgence marks a poignant return to the 2014 original, which was spearheaded by Anthony Senerchia, Pete Frates, and Pat Quinn. While those three founders did not live to see this second wave, their legacy remains the catalyst for current progress. The initial 2014 campaign raised $115 million, funding the first-ever treatment for a specific genetic form of the disease and doubling the number of specialized clinics nationwide. Despite these advancements, ALS remains fatal, and the current surge in funding is viewed by the ALS Association as a critical opportunity to maintain pressure on research pipelines.