The ‘Hot’ New ALS Challenge That Shaq, Charles Barkley and the Miami Heat are Getting in On

Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley are bringing the heat to ALS awareness.

After the famed Ice Bucket Challenge raised millions for ALS research in 2014, one family has stepped in to turn that research into a cure through the #ALSPepperChallenge — and they have the world of sports on board.

Last October, social worker Patty Haberstroh of Westport, Connecticut, was diagnosed with ALS. Her family, including her son Tom, a former ESPN announcer, immediately jumped into action. On Christmas Day, the Haberstroh clan posted a video of themselves eating hot peppers and daring their friends to do the same in the name of raising funds for ALS.

In just a few weeks, celebrities like O’Neal, Barkley, Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and ESPN’s Rachel Nichols have chomped on hot peppers, all while helping to raise almost $50,000 (including Facebook donations, which take two weeks to clear).

Challenge accepted!@paulpierce34, Jackie MacMullan & @Rachel__Nichols