Gov. Raimondo leads ice bucket challenge for ALS research

By The Associated Press

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ Gov. Gina Raimondo has taken the ice bucket challenge to help find a cure for Lou Gehrig’s disease.             

The Democratic governor dumped ice water over her head on the statehouse steps Tuesday, calling it a "terrific, terrific cause."             

House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello and Senate President Teresa Paiva-Weed joined in at Raimondo’s request. The Rhode Island ALS Association participated.              

Republican Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker challenged Raimondo when he was drenched in August.              

Former Boston College baseball player Pete Frates and Pat Quinn started the challenge last year to raise awareness about the neurological disease, also known as ALS. Organizers say over $220 million was raised.

They launched the challenge again July 31 at Fenway Park with the Boston Red Sox. They plan to hold it each August until a cure is found.

© The Associated Press/WLNE-TV 2015