Hi Georgia.
Yes, just diagnosed, but now that we know what is wrong with him, we realize someone should have caught it last summer for sure, if not before. He was hospitalized last July for a week because he couldn't breathe. He was finally released with no diagnosis, then again in September, then again in December for another week. In January, a new cardiologist finally ordered a fluoroscopy of his diaphragm because with his speech issues, general weakness, and breathing complaint, he suspected a stroke (or strokes) - apparently a paralyzed diaphragm is a possible effect of stroke. The fluoroscopy showed his diaphragm was definitely not working well (60%) so he made a referral to a neurologist. Neurologist was sure it was ALS and sent him to a second neurologist for nerve and muscle conduction tests. She confirmed the diagnosis. I wish I had known the symptoms of ALS. I can't believe all of those doctors had us convinced that he having anxiety issues over his existing health issues. I so want to call each and every one of them and tell them what they missed, just so they might recognize it in someone in the future.
He can't walk without a cane, but now he can barely hold his cane because his hands are so weak. I hadn't realized how much he had relied on his hands and arms to push himself up when he wanted to stand, but now that they're getting weak, he can barely get out of a chair on his own and his it's getting worse very quickly. This is a crazy awful disease and I've been overwhelmed the last few weeks, trying to learn everything I need to know.
