Only Fossett is flying solo on the estimated two to three week trip. In addition, three other teams have announced their plans to join the race, including a team who will make their attempt from Australia, ascending to an altitude of 130,000 feet.
ALS is a fatal disease: Most ALS patients die within two to five years of diagnosis. Common causes of death are respiratory failure and/or cardiac problems related to insufficient oxygen. Patients may also suffer respiratory infections, such as pneumonia.
Most people develop ALS between the ages of 40 and 70, with the average age being 55, but there are some cases of people getting ALS in their 20s and 30s. Last summer, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge brought $115 million in donations to help continue the battle to find a cure for the life-ending disease. Navy veteran Lt. Cmdr. Matt Bellina was 30 when he got the official diagnosis he had ALS.