I am still able to do much for myself so the best help I have gotten from my friends is 1) being available to help lift my wheelchair in and out of my car when we get together 2) offering an arm to help me walk on uneven sidewalks, off a curb, etc. 3) suggesting activities that I can still participate in, like going out for lunch 4) picking…

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Thank you for sharing this previous article, Dagmar. I have found all of the articles that you write to be informative and encouraging! This one is a particularly good one for me to read.

I also experience cyclic better/not as good days. My main issues are walking and fatigue. I do notice that when I have an appointment or activity of some kind I am able push myself more. If I have something (doesn’t take much) 2 or 3 days in a row though, I will need to really rest / sleep more to get back to baseline.

Hi, Dagmar, Both my husband and I were raised in a very small town named Buffalo Center and had many relatives in near by Lake Mills. Very north and very central. I got my undergraduate degree at the U of Iowa as did many of my relatives. One of my brothers (now passed) and his wife retired in Iowa City. I loved living in Iowa City in…

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I wouldn’t say guilt exactly. I feel great compassion for anyone with ALS but particularly those who are diagnosed at a younger age and/or are progressing more quickly. I usually don’t share too much about myself and wonder if some question my diagnosis because of my slow progression. Jane

Hi, all,

I live in a Minneapolis suburb but also grew up in Iowa. I was diagnosed in Dec 2023 but first had symptoms of muscle cramps and fasciculations beginning in 2017. I have progressed to muscle weakness in legs and arms but no bulbar symptoms. I am able to slowly get around the house but use a cane outside or a power wheelchair…

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