When Dagmar Munn was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 59 in 2010, she tapped into her nearly 30 years of professional health and wellness experience. She not only follows her own advice but also inspires and teaches others to do the same. In addition to her columnist role, she is one of the moderators for the ALS News Today Forums and writes a personal blog called “ALS and Wellness.” She lives with her husband in Green Valley, Arizona, enjoying finding humor in life’s situations and spending free time pursuing creative projects in fiber arts.During the first year after my ALS diagnosis, I was overwhelmed by the physical changes I was experiencing as I learned to eat, move, and speak in new ways. One of the most significant…
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I’m sure we’ve entered the spooky season, a time when doing simple, normal activities feels more like a trip through the local haunted house. Goblins lurking in the shadows are ready to do their…
Once in a while, there’s a topic on the ALS News Today Forums that inspires a new column. The question posted was a simple one: “Do you celebrate ALS-related anniversaries?” I intended…
Last week, I opened my inbox and an article from ALS News Today caught my eye. The story, “Maximizing lung function with ALS,” explained how patients can proactively manage their lung health…
Come on, do we really need another reminder to practice self-care? I think we do. I know I need it, especially because I have ALS and am living in a world that’s barreling down…
“I should be an ALS comedian. I know I could, too — that is, if it weren’t for my darn ALS.” That’s what I tell myself on the days when life’s funny moments…
I know I’ve said this many times, but it’s worth repeating: One of the most important lessons ALS has taught me is to never give up. This leads me into this week’s column.
This summer, I’ve been superfocused on a special fix-up project — namely, my posture. Why? Because earlier this year, whether I was sitting, standing, or walking, I noticed a slow slump forward of my…
Having ALS is certainly no laughing matter. But I’ve found over the years that it can give rise to many humorous moments. On some days, in fact, finding the funny while in a frustrating…
“I still can’t understand you. Say it one more time.” My husband and I were having a simple conversation, and I was trying to emphasize my point of view, but my mouth and tongue…
I used to take for granted my ability to sync up with the people and events in my life — to keep up with conversations, move in unison with my fellow dancers, and show…
Navigating life with ALS is a journey, and for many of us, it comes with an extra passenger: health anxiety. Before my diagnosis, I thought my good health would continue forever. But…
