Karen,
I read this post earlier today, but struggled to find words. I am simply a CALS and cannot hope to truly understand what it is like to be a PALS. The physical, mental and emotional toll that comes with such a diagnosis is beyond my comprehension. For my PALS (and for myself), it has been less about defining the ride and more about how we manage the ride. And oh... how you've redefined how we ride! The glimpse of you... shared with us here as you lived these last several years, will be remembered long after your last post.
The best words for you have already been written. They've been written in the thousands of responses to the nearly 4,000 posts that you've taken time to write; regardless of the effort to do so. You have given heart, hope and help to those who might have initially felt dark, lost and alone. You have provided testament to the fact that life does not end with diagnosis. And you've inspired others to do the same.
I wish you well as you continue your journey past ALS. And I sincerely thank you for the time you took to make our lives that much richer.
My very, very best...
Jim