Jason,
I wanted to offer some of my thoughts, and they are just that, my thoughts.
You sound like you have a nice family started and are active with it, your business, and most likely your church and community. My advise is to not let this doubt you have about ALS take this away from you. The mind is the most powerful tool we have, but it also can be what hinders us the most, if we start to "borrow trouble."
I've been reading down through your posts since joining us. Your first one started with your doctor saying that ALS has to be ruled out. I'm assuming that was because you'd asked about ALS, as very few doctors will even bring up ALS until there has been a lot of testing, and other avenues pursued.
It almost seems like you don't want reaffirmation that your symptoms don't point to motor neuron disease. And, its fine to play devil's advocate to an extent, but not to the extreme. I understand it is very difficult to find oneself with a condition that is not clear cut, and answers are not readily forthcoming. However, often times, the more people start to try to self diagnose, the more new symptoms they acquire, and the more frightened they become, so its important to be on guard as to this, and not let yourself go down that path.
Perhaps you can try to get your appointment at Johns Hopkins moved up to a closer date. They're the best in the world - at least IMHO. I drive over three hours to be seen there, but would drive many times over that, if needed, and there you are right there!
Those that you've taken issue with on here (so far, I may be next) are very knowledgeable people, who, although they do not have medical degrees, absolutely do know what they're talking about. There isn't a kinder person on here than Laurel! Al, who has ALS, has acquired an impressive understanding of the disease, and also is good at reading people. As a moderator he puts in countless hours for this forum and its members. Wright originally came here due to his own health concerns, and has stayed around to help. He has been invaluable to me personally with interpretation of test results. He teaches in this field on a college level.
Some conditions and diseases just take a while to develop enough for diagnosis. Its frustrating, yes, but you'll do yourself and your family a great disservice if you allow the Great Unknown to take over your life. I'm not at all saying you've done this, but rather to beware of the danger.
Good luck to you, and again, do whatever you can to get into Hopkins, they're the best,
take care, :smile:
