Pete Frates, the inspirational man behind Ice Bucket Challenge dies at 34
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Pete Frates, the inspirational former Boston College baseball player who helped popularize the viral Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014, has died at 34 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, according to his family.
The Frates family released a statement through Boston College on Monday saying that Frates “passed away surrounded by his loving family, peacefully at age 34, after a heroic battle with ALS.”
In a statement, the family said that Pete Frates was 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.
Remarkably, Pete never complained about his illness. Instead, he saw it as an opportunity to give hope to other patients and their families. In his lifetime, he was determined to change the trajectory of a disease that had no treatment or cure. As a result, through his determination—along with his faithful supporters, Team Frate Train—he championed the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. In August of 2014, the historic movement pioneered social media fundraising and garnered donations globally that resulted in better access to ALS care, genetic discoveries, treatments and, someday, a cure. He was a beacon of hope for all.
