Ice Bucket Challenge Inspiration Pete Frates Dies
Pete Frates, best known for starting the Ice Bucket Challenge to raise money and awareness for ALS, has died at the age of 34.
Frates’ family issued the following statement, which was shared by Boston College, where he was a captain of their baseball team: “Today Heaven received our angel: Peter Frates. A husband to Julie, a father to Lucy, a son to John and Nancy, a brother to Andrew and Jennifer, Pete passed away surrounded by his loving family, peacefully at age 34, after a heroic battle with ALS. Pete was an inspiration to so many people around the world who drew strength from his courage and resiliency.”
“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.”
The Ice Bucket Challenge went viral in 2014 and led to raising more than $220 million for ALS research. Frates was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 2012.
A number of organizations and individuals paid tribute to Frates as news of his passing spread.
You changed the world Pete. Im so very proud to have called you my friend. Heart hurts a lot today but ur name and legacy will live on forever. Rest easy my friend - we’ll continue to spread your word. Boston was so lucky to have you 😔🙏🏿 #BostonStrong #alsicebucketchallenge #rip pic.twitter.com/LxHtExXWZN
— David Ortiz (@davidortiz) December 9, 2019
Pete Frates was the definition of an inspiration.
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) December 9, 2019
His courage, determination, and fight made Boston – and the world – proud. The impact he made on all of us will never be forgotten.
The Bruins offer their sincere condolences to the Frates family during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/2oFPGVJ4AZ
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pete Frates. His heroic battle served as an inspiration to all and will never be forgotten.
— TD Garden (@tdgarden) December 9, 2019
TD Garden will glow red tonight in honor of Pete and his fight against ALS. https://t.co/dnwKkfZrb2
College baseball lost a dear friend and @BCBirdBall legend in Pete Frates today.@aaronfitt on Frates' legacy back in 2016.
— D1Baseball (@d1baseball) December 9, 2019
>> https://t.co/NcqNMxVrfe pic.twitter.com/90yJ8G8Z2Z
Pete Frates was a fighter, a champion, and an inspiration. His passion for life was contagious, and his mission to find a cure for ALS will live on. Thank you, Pete. https://t.co/KCWloJ37Gw
— Ed Markey (@EdMarkey) December 9, 2019
A tragic day for not just the ALS community or the baseball community, but any disease that is short on hope and needs cures. Pete Frates was and will forever be a giant in the fight against this f cking horrible disease. Deepest condolences to the Frates family. https://t.co/FYc1Ks3BF2
— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) December 9, 2019
When the cure for ALS is found Pete Frates will be one of the first names mentioned when people ask how it happened. What a fight he put forth. Rest In Peace.
— Ryan Whitney (@ryanwhitney6) December 9, 2019
Pete Frates, the greatest athlete in Boston history, has passed away, per family. What a great fighter. He will never be forgotten.
— Steve Buckley (@BuckinBoston) December 9, 2019
Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of former @BCBirdball captain Pete Frates ’07, whose heroic battle with ALS served as the inspiration for the #IceBucketChallenge, died at the age of 34.
— Boston College (@BostonCollege) December 9, 2019
In Memoriam: https://t.co/09wI6Nk5OL pic.twitter.com/faTctiu1jE
