Dad diagnosed with ALS earlier this year

[tmasters]

Re: New to this

He's still driving which scares me to death as he seems to be getting so much worse so quickly.

You mention you're scared and the reason for your fear seems to be related to his fast progression. You didn't say anything specific about his driving skills.

Please don't intervene toward having his license removed until you see his driving skills reduced. If you've already noticed, and his driving seems to be dangerous, then please DO intervene.

-Tom

 

[st123]

Re: New to this

Hi Tmasters,

I haven't seen him drive. I just worry about the deterioration, especially in his right foot. The breathing/coughing issues seem like they pose a hazard as well. I haven't said anything yet. Since I haven't actually seen evidence that's he's dangerous, I'm waiting for the appt with the specialist to see what he says.

Thanks

 

[edjohnson]

Re: New to this

Come join us. Working hard on getting treatments for PALS now!

We would love to have your active help.

 

[trfogey]

Re: New to this

I'm a project manager and use planning and schedules to deal with tough or stressful situations - even in my private life. It helps me to feel somewhat in control of a situation. Guess I'll try to use everyone's advice to be as prepared as possible and then just take it one day at a time. Um... can you guess that 'one day at a time' might be just a little challenging for me?

You are never going to be "in control" of your father's ALS. You can learn to cope with what it has already done . You can learn what to expect with what's coming. But you'll only be assured of having these moments in the present, so make the most of them.

ALS has its own schedule. And it won't take yours into account.

 

[momap53]

Re: New to this

I'm thinking about you and your Dad and am hoping that his appointment at Clinic is a positive experience.

 

[1fanatic]

Re: New to this

My mom (age 68) was just diagnosed in January, although we've been looking for an answer for almost a year. She too experiences so many symptoms that I want to believe are too early for her to experience as well. Some of which I attribute to her reading the internet and choosing to not take her anti-anxiety medication. I just posted earlier in another thread about this as well. I am looking for answers and guidance as well. And although I don't have an answer for you, it is comforting to know that I am not alone in this dreaded path.