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I noticed that a few people have asked what is wrong with my wife and I haven't mentioned it yet in general. My wife has ALS, here is a write up about what ALS is from the ALS Canada (www.als.ca) web site.

"Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also known as ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease, or motor neuron disease) is a disease that gradually paralyzes people because the brain is no longer able to communicate with the muscles of the body that we are typically able to move at will. Over time, as the muscles of the body break down, someone living with ALS will lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe.
ALS is not contagious. There is no cure for ALS and few treatment options for the majority of people living with the disease. Approximately 80 per cent of people with ALS die within two to five years of being diagnosed."

My wife started by having troubles keeping her balance on windy days and some difficulty walking. Originally we thought there was a problem with her right knee as she had issues in the past. Towards the end of July 2015 it got to the point that she noticed that it was difficult to lift her foot to climb stairs. After multiple tests and examinations by a few different doctors, we found out in the first week of August 2015 that she had the early stages of ALS. Within 2 years she has gone from being fully independent to not being able to hold a fork to lift food to her mouth. She cannot raise her hands high enough to comb her own hair. At this point, walking across a room is a struggle for her and she can't lift her foot at all to walk.
So sorry to hear this. Must be hard for both of you
What's made you feel like this @gmatthewb
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@Frillydolly A number of things through my life. I know a lot of people say they have a hard life. I'm not going to complain about my life. I have just had a lot of negative and very little positive and even less support.
Karmalives · 51-55, M
@gmatthewb same
1pebbles · 56-60, F
@gmatthewb ALS is a terrible disease, praying for you both as you go through this together
1pebbles · 56-60, F
@gmatthewb along with cancer and Parkinson’s.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@1pebbles Don't forget Huntington's and MS along with so many others.
1pebbles · 56-60, F
@gmatthewb I’m definitely in agreement
AllAboutTheFacts · 31-35, M
Hey Gmatthewb.

I am deeply sorry to hear that you and your wife have to go through this. It is in these situations that I would wish I could help. I hope you guys find a way through this. Also a lot of respect to you, for being there by her side. I wish the best for you guys in the future, whatever that might help.

My deepest sympathy! best of wishes for you and your wife.

Regards
From Denmark.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@AllAboutTheFacts Thank you.
I'm sorry to hear that. God tests the bravest of us with the most difficult problems. Keep the faith.

The way I see it is we were supposed to undergo this pain and suffering and there's no escaping it. Do your best and this too shall pass.

Always think of what you would want your wife to do had you been in her place. Sending you positive vibes and prayers 🙏
sighmeupforthat · 46-50, M
i was brought up to mind my own business.

i offer to speak about what's wrong with my wife.


i'm sorry for your trouble.

can you find help to keep her able bodied to a certain point?

?!

soo much has progressed in many things, though we are really soooo behind it hurts to look forward.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@sighmeupforthat We have a team of specialists that help and plenty of equipment such as a transport chair, stair climber and other aids to help her move around.
SW-User
I’m so very sorry. You have my deepest sympathy.
SW-User
I don't know what to say to you. Saying sorry wouldnt heal your pain that you are going through. I know how it feels to see your loved one suffering. I wish for a miracle. Miracles happen. May God heal her. Amen. Hugs
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@SW-User Thank you, but running low on hope for any kind of miracle these days.
SW-User
🤗 Hugs
I am sorry to hear that. 😞
CoffeeFirst · 56-60, F
That really sucks, as illness often does. I hope you find a lot of support on SW. A lot of us have spouses with varying degrees of physical and mental difficulties. Hang in there!!
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@CoffeeFirst Thank you. I don't find support here, this is more of a distraction and a way for me to try to focus on being as positive as I can be. I see so many others dealing with difficulties and I do my best to be supportive and understanding with some of them. Takes my mind off my own issues for a while.
1pebbles · 56-60, F
My heart hurts for the struggles you face every day. She’s much too young. My prayers go out for you.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@1pebbles Thank you. We get through the days and I keep her spirits up as often as I can.
1pebbles · 56-60, F
@gmatthewb I’ll try to be an encouragement to you. Left a private message
Fungirlmmm · 51-55, F
I'm so sorry and hope that she is doing the best she can with the disease.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@Fungirlmmm Thank you. I'm doing the best I can to make her happy and comfortable. I can still make her laugh daily at least.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@Fungirlmmm By the way, now she only control the TV if the controller is on her tummy while sitting up in bed. That is all she can do on her own other than drink through a straw. She can still eat if I cut things up small and feed her everything. She is unable to pick up a small piece of chocolate and put it into her mouth any more. She is a lot worse than she was when I first wrote that.
MsMontgomery · 51-55, F
Bless her heart. You are a truly wonderful husband. I’m sorry for her illness.
gmatthewb · 51-55, M
@MsMontgomery Thank you.
Loretta78 · 46-50, F
I understand now. This is really TERRIBLE!!!
I am so very sorry for you. :-(
BalmyNites · F
I am so sorry to hear about your wife's ill health, thank you for sharing this.
vader2112 · 46-50, M
I'm so sorry to hear that. Stay strong. *hugs*
HeavenBesideYou · 56-60, F
I'm so sorry. It must be very difficult for you both.
Mocha24 · 26-30, F
Sending prayers your way ❤❤
SW-User
I'm soo sorry
zeeva70 · F
I'm so sorry.
I’m so sorry. Thank you for being willing to discuss this disease and very best wishes to you both.

 
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