As 2026 begins, former JD.com vice president Cai Lei – now in his seventh year battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – has published a groundbreaking New Year’s letter using eye-tracking technology. The 47-year-old advocate’s update reveals both the harsh realities of late-stage ALS and significant advancements in global research collaborations.
From Tech Executive to Medical Pioneer
Diagnosed in 2020, Cai has transformed his corporate leadership skills into medical advocacy. His letter details the international ALS research initiative’s progress, particularly in developing data-driven treatment platforms. "What began as personal survival has become a race against time for millions," Cai wrote, referencing the 180,000 new global ALS cases reported annually.
The Science of Survival
Medical researchers credit Cai’s platform with accelerating clinical trial recruitment by 40% since 2023. His latest project integrates AI analysis of patient biometrics from 17 countries, creating what neurologists call "the first real-time global ALS progression map." This year’s priorities include biomarker identification and testing three experimental therapies.
Life Behind the Numbers
Cai’s ALSFRS-R score of 8/48 underscores his physical decline, yet his cognitive clarity remains intact. The advocate spends 10+ daily hours coordinating research through adaptive technology, describing the paradox of "watching my body fade while ideas multiply." His letter concludes with a call for increased cross-border pharmaceutical cooperation, particularly between Asian and European research hubs.
