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Man who inspired ice bucket challenge is back in hospital

Man who inspired ice bucket challenge is back in hospital

By ASSOCIATED PRESS

FILE - In this December 13, 2016, file photo, former Boston College baseball captain Pete Frates, left, appears with his wife Julie, center, and two-year-old daughter Lucy, right, moments after he was presented with the 2017 NCAA Inspiration Award, at their home in Beverly. Photo: AP

BOSTON: The Massachusetts man who inspired people around the world to dump buckets of ice water over their heads to raise millions of dollars for Lou Gehrig's disease research is back in the hospital. A Facebook post from the family of 32-year-old Pete Frates (FRAY'-tees) asked for prayers Sunday and said he is at Massachusetts General Hospital 'and battling this beast ALS like a Superhero.' Frates was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 2012. The disease weakens muscles and impairs physical functioning. There is no known cure. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge raised more than $220 million when it took off worldwide on social media in 2014. The family's Facebook post has drawn hundreds of comments of support. Family members said, 'We feel your love and support and are so grateful.'