Benchmark International Makes Waves as Presenting Sponsor of the ALS Association’s CEO Soak

Every 90 minutes, someone in the United States is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes someone loses their life to the disease. ALS is a progressive, fatal neuromuscular disease that gradually takes away a person’s ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe. With no known cure, raising awareness and funding research remain critical to fighting this devastating disease.

On October 29, Tyrus O’Neill, Chief Executive Officer of the Americas, and Sam Smoot, Managing Director, will participate in the ALS Association’s CEO Soak to raise awareness and critical funds for individuals affected by ALS.

With Benchmark International proudly serving as the event’s presenting sponsor, this year’s CEO Soak reflects a shared commitment to a cause close to Sam’s heart for years.

For Sam Smoot, the fight against ALS is more than a charitable cause. After losing his father to the disease, he dedicated years to supporting the CEO Soak in his honor. Tyrus will also join him at this year’s event to amplify awareness, support ALS research, and bring the community together for a cure.

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A Commitment to Fighting ALS

Sam has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact ALS has on individuals and their families. His longstanding participation in the CEO Soak honors his father and his father’s cousin.

As Sam shares: “Watching my father battle ALS was incredibly difficult, and the experience left a lasting impact on me. If raising funds and awareness can help accelerate the search for a cure, then taking part in this event is the very least I can do. It’s a small act with the hope of making a meaningful difference for those facing this devastating disease.”

Joining Sam is Tyrus O’Neill, whose participation reflects a shared commitment to supporting the ALS community. Through Tyrus’s involvement and Benchmark International’s presenting sponsorship, the event will draw additional attention to ALS awareness, research, and care.

Why the Fight Against ALS Matters

ALS affects the nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movement. As the disease progresses, individuals can lose muscular control and often require extensive care and assistance with everyday activities.

The impact is significant:

• Life expectancy: Typically two to five years after diagnosis, although some individuals live longer.
• Unpredictable diagnosis: ALS can affect anyone, and approximately 90% of cases occur without a known family history.
• Financial burden: Extensive care can cost as much as $250,000 annually.
• No cure: While treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression for some patients, there is no cure.

The ALS Association supports individuals living with ALS and their caregivers through care, services, and research aimed at developing new treatments and finding a cure.

Join Us in Making Waves

A little water can make a big splash, but together, we can make an even bigger impact. As Sam and Tyrus prepare to take the plunge, we’re proud to be the presenting sponsor and support the ALS Association’s mission.

How can you make a difference?

• Donate: Every contribution supports the ALS Association’s mission to provide care, advance research, and advocate for people living with ALS.
• Join the challenge: Register as a fellow Soakee and get soaked alongside Tyrus.
• Spread awareness: Share Tyrus’s fundraising campaign and encourage others to support the fight against ALS.

On October 29, join Sam, Tyrus, and the ALS community in supporting a mission that matters to individuals and families facing this devastating disease.

Want to donate? Support Sam’s CEO Soak fundraising campaign by clicking here. To support Tyrus’s CEO Soak fundraising campaign, click here.

Want to learn more about ALS and the work being done to fight this disease? Click here.

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