I received my ALS diagnosis 14 months ago, and the journey since has been a wild roller coaster ride.

In February 2023, when I noticed difficulty in stepping onto a curb, I questioned my own laziness after a long winter, and decided to start doing some squats.
In March, my daughter-in-law tracked my 50-year-old son who had been adopted at birth. I was just 17 when he was born - Cloud nine wasn’t enough to describe my joy!
April saw a handful of falls - luckily no breaks, just scrapes and bruises - partnered with lots of embarrassment.
In May, my family doctor blamed my leg weakness on aging, but gave me a stellar bill of health - but I knew something wasn’t right!
October, completely fed up, I entered the Emergency Room at Foothills Hospital - determined to stay until someone took me seriously. Luckily enough, a 4th year resident saw me and took down every bit of information she could, including the fact that my mother had been diagnosed with ALS in 2001. I was quickly referred to the Urgent Neurology Clinic. After a week, Dr. Jewett met with me, started a file and sent me for testing.
November 9 - My sister and I sat across from Dr. Jewett in his office to receive the confirmation of Familial ALS… No surprise there!

Being introduced to the ALS Clinic at South Campus was an absolute joy! The number of doctors, therapists, and research people! It was so soothing to know that there were steps to take to ensure my ongoing quality of life. Things that were not available to my mom due to recent studies. Much of that is because of the Ice Bucket Challenge. Who knew!? My friends are so supportive that what could have been a dark time has motivated not just me but others to get LIVING! My next bucket list item to Make Possible started May 2nd when we headed to Vancouver and boarded a ship for the Alaskan cruise! See you later alligators, keep on keeping on!