We Are Always Preparing to Manage Life on Our Own
When my 12-year-old son, Isaac, went to mow the grass last week, he noticed that one of the tires had…
Articles by Kristin Neva
What Risks Are We Willing to Take?
“What if Todd had aspirated while you were on your spring break trip?” someone asked me. That’s the type…
Reflecting on 12 Years Since the ALS Diagnosis
“Kristin, if you can’t choose joy for yourself, then do it so Todd’s remaining days and years won’t be miserable,”…
When There Isn’t Time to See a Tree Grow
As I left our house to get the kids from school, the tree was gone. A contractor’s crew was removing…
Honoring Family During a Memorial Day Visit to the Cemetery
Every Memorial Day, I go with my mom, daughter, and son to the Lakeside Cemetery in Hancock, Michigan, to attend…
Getting Dental Work With ALS Is Often Complicated and Stressful
Last week, my husband, Todd, considered canceling a dentist appointment to get a crown placed over a broken tooth. “Is…
My Husband’s ALS Progression Takes Us Into Another Season of Life
A couple weeks ago, when my husband, Todd, told me he wasn’t going to attend our kids’ end-of-the-year events at…
A Diagnosis, Prom Night, and Two Special Strands of Pearls
In the summer of 2010, my husband, Todd, stopped at the mall after work. It was my birthday, and he…
The Straw That Breaks the Camel’s Back
A couple weeks ago, one of our toilet tanks developed a crack and started leaking. I turned off the water,…
Living With ALS Takes Courage
Editor’s note: This column discusses suicide. Please find resources for help at the end of the column. In the…