Lou Gehrig's disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to the degeneration of motor neurons, which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. As these neurons die, individuals experience muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, and challenges with swallowing and breathing. The disease is named after Lou Gehrig, a famous American baseball player who was diagnosed with ALS in 1939. While the exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, it can occur sporadically or in rare familial cases. There is currently no cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.