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.
Becker: Death by age 40 -50 from heart failure Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy: Death from respiratory or heart failure, depending upon the age of onset Cancer: Infection Lightning: Fatal Arrhythmias and respiratory failure. Myelodysplasia: The most common cause of death is not leukemia; most patients die of infection or bleeding.