Guitarist Jason Becker has revealed that Eddie Van Halen has privately responded to his ALS challenge from last month.
“We have been talking lately, and he sent us a donation,” writes Becker. “People should know that he didn’t ignore the ice bucket challenge but wanted to do something less public and from his heart.”
Becker, who has lived with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) for 25 years, performed his own Ice Bucket Challenge during the viral video campaign (see video below) and added Eddie’s and singer David Lee Roth's names to the list.
Roth chose to donate to the cause and posted support for others to participate, as well.
Becker joined Roth’s solo band in 1989 and is featured on his 1991 album, “A Little Ain’t Enough.” The guitarist was diagnosed with ALS as he was preparing for a tour with Roth and was given three to five years to live.
Due to his illness, Becker eventually lost the ability to speak and now communicates with his eyes via a system developed by his father. Although his ALS gradually robbed him of his ability to play guitar, to walk, and eventually even to speak, he still remains mentally sharp and, with the aid of a computer, continues composing.
Roth and Van Halen have both supported Becker throughout the years, performing at fundraisers and raising awareness about ALS.
To learn more about Jason and/or to donate funds directly to him and his family, visit jasonbeckerguitar.com
To learn more about ALS and/or to donate, visit alsa.org
See also:
VIDEO: David Lee Roth previews new episode of The Roth Show
Van Halen tops the hennemusic Hot 10
AUDIO: Michael Anthony revisits split from Van Halen
VIDEO: Sammy Hagar nominates Van Halen brothers for ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
Search Van Halen at hennemusic
