Tanea 'Rebel' Brooks Named Honorary Board Member at I AM ALS

Brooks joined the patient-led advocacy group as an ambassador in June 2026, shortly after disclosing her ALS diagnosis. She quickly mobilized her fanbase, using appearances and specialized merchandise—including a limited-edition trading card and apparel—to drive awareness and funding. Her efforts culminated in a high-profile advocacy push during the final stretch of negotiations for the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act of 2026.

The legislative victory ensures another five years of research infrastructure and treatment access, backed by an additional $500 million in federal investment. According to I AM ALS CEO Andrea Goodman, Brooks’s ability to pair vulnerability with her public platform has been essential in securing this support. As an honorary board member, the Owasso, Oklahoma native will continue to leverage her visibility to push for a cure and expand resources for the ALS community.