I am a retired Navy Veteran, having spent 29 years in the Navy. I worked in the civilian force for the last ten years at two different companies. I was laid off in March 2008. I developed speaking and swallowing problems in the late fall of 2007, went to the doctor in January 2008. After MRI, and throat specialists...I went to a neurologist, and was diagnosed in June 2008 with ALS and Bulbar Onset. It was seconded at the Navy Medical Hospital shortly thereafter. I have been to the local ALS Association in San Diego. I am married and have four wonderful sons. My wife is the best.