Pete Frates death: Man who inspired Ice Bucket Challenge dies aged 34 after helping raise millions for ALS research

The man who championed the Ice Bucket Challenge that raised millions worldwide for ALS research has died aged 34.

Pete Frates was diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disease in 2013. He died on Monday surrounded by family at his home in Massachusetts.

A year after he was diagnosed, Mr Frates inspired the Ice Bucket Challenge.

The craze saw people around the world posted videos and photos of themselves while dumping buckets of ice water on their heads and challenging others to do the same in aid of ALS research.

It raised more than $220 million (£167 million), the ALS Association reported. ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

In 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration announced it approved a drug that slows the effects of ALS.

Mr Frates helped draw attention to the challenge through celebrity support from New England Patriots star Tom Brady, soon-to-become Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, former US Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Gates, and Lady Gaga, among others

It was part of his long-time ALS advocacy, which he said inspired him to not just survive but thrive after being diagnosed with the deadly disease.

"(It) give me another reason to get out of bed every day," Mr Frates told the Boston College newspaper, The Heights, roughly a year after his diagnosis.

"Being part of something bigger than yourself is one of the best things you can do," he said.

His family paid tribute to the “natural born leader” and “noble fighter”.

“Pete was a role model for all, especially young athletes, who looked up to him for his bravery and unwavering positive spirit in the face of adversity,” they said.

“He was a noble fighter who inspired us all to use our talents and strengths in the service of others.

“Remarkably, Pete never complained about his illness. Instead, he saw it as an opportunity to give hope to other patients and their families.

“In his lifetime, he was determined to change the trajectory of a disease that had no treatment or cure.”

I Am ALS also paid tribute to Mr Yates, tweeting: “Today, we lost a giant in this community. @PeteFrates3 was a husband, father, brother, son.