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Pittsburgh family affected by ALS thanks people participating in #IceBucketChallenge

PITTSBURGH — As a crowd of people poured ice cold water on their heads at the courthouse Thursday for the ALS ice bucket challenge, Channel 11 zeroed in on the Onyshko family.

Matt Onyshko was diagnosed with ALS seven years ago. The Pittsburgh firefighter and former California University football player has learned to adapt and so has his wife, but it hasn't been easy.

"It's a constantly evolving disease.  When you get used to one stage of the disease, it progresses," said Jessica Onyshko, Matt's wife.

The Onyshkos have had to make their home and van more accessible, and their family and friends have helped them do that.

"We have been so fortunate, but not everybody with the disease is so fortunate, and the ice bucket challenge is really going to help families in need affected by this disease," said Jessica Onyshko.  "I thank everyone for their love and support."

WPXI

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