So, there’s two muffins in an oven. One muffin says, “It’s really hot in here!” The other muffin says, “Oh my god, a talking muffin?!”
I’m Dan. I’m 39 years old. I have 3 amazing kids (17, 15 and 4) and my wonderful girlfriend of 8 years, Ashley. I worked as a welder until roughly 5 ½ years ago when I was diagnosed with ALS. It all started when I noticed a slight weakness in my hand. I was visiting my doctor about an unrelated issue but when I mentioned my hand, he got concerned and sent me to see a couple of specialists. After a few months, I received my official diagnosis.
Before ALS I was a “indoors” person. Most of my free time was spent playing video games, watching movies, and eating out. At first, that didn’t change much but as my hands got worse, I adapted… I still chuckle wondering what strangers thought of me drinking a beer with a straw in the middle of a pub. Eventually, I couldn’t use a game controller anymore and even using my iPad was a struggle. Then one day I propped my iPad up on the coffee table, leaned back and started using my toes. I started with simple games and tasks but now I do everything like surfing the internet, texting, and playing Minecraft with my kids. Being able to manage my own finances, communicate with people and even order dinner for the family has kept me independent and I believe helps me fight this disease.
I couldn’t do this without my family who helps me to stay positive: my teenage kids laugh at my jokes and really keep me going; my toddler with his endless energy and entertainment; Ashley is my best friend and greatest supporter; my brothers renovated our home for us and always help when needed; my mom who brings positivity and kindness with every visit; my dad who is generous and taught me perseverance through his own journey with health issues.
ALS is a bummer but the support of everyone has amazed me and has definitely provided light on some dark days. There are two groups that have helped make this disease less of a downer.
The ALS Clinic at South Health Campus is awesome and I’m truly grateful for the team there. The simplicity of having all my medical appointments compressed into one place and one visit every 3 months has saved me unimaginable stress.
The ALS Society is an incredible example of how donations can actually help people in need. They’ve helped me with everything from getting a power chair to helping to pay for my kids' sports through the Support for Champions program. On top of that, they are always checking in to ask how I am and if I need anything. Ever since I was diagnosed, they have been a reliable and important part of my support system.