I was diagnosed with ALS Oct. 2008 - I was devastated - I thought my live was over.  I have 3 beautiful grandchildren - 2 boys  - age 18 months a 5 and a girl - 3 months, 3 beautiful kids - 2 girls age 23 & 25, a son 31 and a wonderful and loving husband.  I got 3 opinions and all said ALS.  The 1st neurologists told me I had 2-5 years but  the neurologists from Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville said I could live as long as 15-20 years depending on how fast the progression is.  So far my progression has been slow I think - but I plan on beating this thing with my family and God's help

2/24/10 - Had a heart attack today.  I started having chest pains on 2/19 but didn't go to ER until 2/24.  I had a heart cath, angioplasty and stent put in the LAD.  Stayed in the hospital 5 days as the blood pressure medicine they put me on lowered my bp to 74/35.  My cardiologists has been changing my meds at each appointment - hopefully everything will stabilize.

4/8/11 - went out on disability as my job was being cut to part time.  I didn't think I was ready - but found out everything happens for a reason.  It was getting harder to get dressed in the mornings and to walk down the long hall to my office.  A lady I worked with gave me a Jet3 - just needed new batteries.  Also got a lift for the back of my husband's truck & my husband built me a 66"x20' wheelchair ramp which has really helped.

10/1 I qualified for Medicare and SS disability.  My husband retired early from work so he could be home with me.  It's hard getting use to this drastic cut in pay - but I'm sure we'll be fine - at least we can spend quality time together.  I'm hoping and praying that there will be a drug approved that will at least slow ALS or even stop the progression.