ALS is a form of Motor Neuron Disease. Motor neurons are found in the brain and in the front part of the spinal cord. In ALS, these neurons die for reasons we don't completely understand at present. This leads to weakness and wasting of the muscles. The motor neurons can die slowly, over 20 or more years (Stephen Hawking, the famous British Astrophysicist has this form), or they can die quickly (Lou Gehrig had this form). Treatments at this time are mainly supportive, meaning assistive devices.
In addition to the links on this page, you may also want to go to the general medical links page and check out the links there. Many of these sites have individual pages devoted to specific diseases.
Organizations
This is the major ALS service organization. There is a local support chapter in Dallas (503) 623-5448
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)
The MDA local number is (503) 223-3177
Muscular Dystrophy Association ALS Newsletter