Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya

Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya transformed a devastating ALS diagnosis into one of the most powerful patient advocacy movements in medical history. Drawing on their extensive backgrounds in White House campaigning and policy development, this dynamic duo co-founded I AM ALS following Brian's terminal diagnosis, refusing to accept the status quo of limited treatment options and inadequate research funding.

Their strategic approach to healthcare advocacy has already yielded remarkable results, successfully passing two critical pieces of legislation and dramatically increasing federal funding for ALS research. Through I AM ALS, they have rapidly built what is now recognized as the most impactful patient-led advocacy organization in medical history, demonstrating how individuals with deep policy expertise and unwavering determination can transform systemic healthcare challenges.

Their work exemplifies how personal tragedy can be channeled into meaningful structural change that benefits entire patient communities.