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.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder of devastating impact that causes injury and death of lower motor neurons in the brainstem and spinal cord, and of upper motor neurons in the motor cortex.