PatientsLikeMe ™

I was raised in the mountains of North Carolina, the middle child of three girls, by two wonderful, loving, Christian parents and extended family. Married 23 years to the love of my life, John. We have two awesome kids, Natalie and Derek. I am very blessed to have incredibly supportive family and friends. Thankfully, I am currently able to work as an Executive Assistant and am still able to do most things for myself. I am told my ALS is very slow progressing - I hope they are right!  I am a very independent person who enjoys time with family and friends, quilting, gardening, sunbathing, the beach, and ‘front porch sitting' (or bird-watching if you will). My symptoms began at the end of 2007 when my fingers locked up while I was carrying in groceries. From there I noticed I didn't have the strength to pinch a clothespin and was losing the fine motor skills and muscles in my hands. I started seeking Medical attention early in 2008. I began dieting in September and quickly noticed things were changing faster than before.  While the diet was successful, the ALS seemed to progress at a much more rapid rate (or maybe I was just more in tune with what was going on). Umpteen Neurologists and Doctors later, the initial clinical diagnosis came on February 23^rd. As anyone diagnosed with ALS or any other life-threatening disease would be, I was devastated as were my family and friends. It has taken a lot of prayer from myself and family and friends and people I don't' even know to get me to a point where I can be positive thinking. One day at a time, God grants us Peace. For now, the ALS seems to have gone back to it's normal progression rate (whatever that might be). Although, only a couple months ago I could scoop ice cream, now I need the microwave to soften it first. I don't really need the ice cream anyway! I can still quilt!!!