I am a part of this club now

[bear1973]

I posted a threat back in March when a non-ALS specialist had diagnosed me, although yesterday that was confirmed.

I have a lot going on my mind right now. It's like there are 2 sides to a coin: on one hand, there is fear of the future, "why me?", and great sadness along with a lot of other emotions. On the other side, I know this is a one day at a time thing, and that it's not helpful to go way into the future. I also know that many good people are diagnosed with this disease.

So I sit here now, trying to come to terms with it. I haven't accepted the diagnoses yet. I still can't believe it. I want to some day though. I want to some day get to a point where it's not on the front of my mind, way somewhere in the back in the back and the focus elsewhere.

 

[LoveMyKids]

I'm sorry about your diagnosis. I know you will find lots of love and support here on the forum.

 

[mpnatx]

Bear, I'm very sorry to hear about your diagnosis. You will find much support and answers to your questions here form experienced PALS. Max will post his important message to you I'm sure.
At first, it is such an overwhelming shock. It's hard to believe that it is not on my mind every waking second anymore. It's more acceptance as you learn more and time goes on. And, I've learned so much here. Especially that we can live longer than what's written everywhere!
Marty

 

[Nikki J]

I am sorry things were confirmed. I know there is always that hope they are wrong. And part of you says no way even when it is confirmed we are here for you

 

[LifeEnthusiast]

Sorry to welcome you here, Bear. I'm kind of in the same situation as you and I am still having trouble accepting the diagnosis. That being said, I'm grasping the reality that I can't see any other diagnosis, particularly knowing how thorough the testing has been over the past 20 months or so for any other alternative diagnosis. I am originally from Ontario too and know Barrie well. I still co-own a property in Muskoka. In comparison to a lot of other PALS, I am still doing great. I think that makes it harder to accept at times, as weird and perverse as that sounds. Yah, I don't walk the same. I tire out easy. Stairs are my nemesis. But the reality is, I am still functioning well. So that in itself makes it more difficult to accept the reality. I am very new here, but in that very short time, I have been welcomed. That welcoming attitude has helped me immeasurably.

 

[CGARS]

ALS sucks ass!
This forum will help with all those questions you have.
It may not seem like it now, but trust a guy who has been right where you are right now, there is life after diagnosis.
Try and relax, I will help a fellow ontario pals with anything you need, just PM me.
Sorry you find yourself here :-(

cheers,
Casey

 

[affected]

Sorry to welcome you to our elite club

Take it slow, there are stickies at the top of the general forum when you are ready for them - one for newly diagnosed and one for anticipatory planning.

Just take in what you can for now, there isn't any rush in the next days to do anything but let yourself settle a little from the shock.

 

[Vincent]

Bummer just doesn't seem to do it. If you want to meet up for a coffee, give me a call. Sorry you have to be here. You are among friends.
VIncent

 

[davbo49]

so sorry, i wouldn't wish this club on anyone.

 

[Jeanau]

Sorry for your confirmation, but you're at the right place for support, good information, and guidance!

 

[chally]

sorry to welcome you here but this is the best place to be. take your time to digest the news, try to relax, hard to do but possible. one day at a time! stay posted chally

 

[Green Queen]

Bear, my heart goes out to you. There is not much I can say that others haven't but I am glad you have found this forum for advice and support.
God bless, Janelle x

 

[MaxEidswick]

>So I sit here now, trying to come to terms with it. I haven't accepted the diagnoses yet. I still can't believe it

I/we can relate :-(

>Max will post his important message to you I'm sure.



like all the others, sorry to meet you here but welcome!

The next weeks, months will be an emotional roller coaster. Try to go with the flow, expect fear, anger, bitterness, and a new awareness of life. I have found that being active here on these forums has helped me in way I cannot explain, but you will see.

before trying miracle cures, etc., ask here, go to alsuntangled dot com.

Lastly, anxiety can be debilitating so beware.

Lastly, lastly DON'T FALL, take vitamins, keep your calorie intake up, and stay away from sick people, especially w/ respiratory problems.


> I do know it is healthier to be thankful for what still works than to resent what doesn't (easier said than done )

also remember the rules:
------
#1 don't fall
#2 don't hang around sick people, at 1st sign of respiratory issue go to doc
#3 conserve energy, rest, never push it, try to relax
#4 stay warm
#5 take vitamins
#6 power off pwc when not driving and Don't ram wheelchair into immovable objects

ALS is about living, not dying!
-----
ok well, we take what we get and be glad for what we have
------
If you have not yet, go to youtube and search "ALS ABC" and watch all 3. I sent those to friends and family, too.

Try to go with the flow, expect fear, anger, bitterness, and a new awareness of life. I have found that being active here on

Max

------


Max - Friday, May 29, 2015 9:32:44 AM

ALS sucks, but It Is What It Is ... and someone else has it worse so I'll try not to complain today!
onset 9/2010, diagnosed with ALS by Stanley Appel 8/29/2013


.

 

[CGARS]

Max,
You are wise beyond your years!
You're advice is spot on, you are a true Jedi master now.

 

[DreamsEnd]

Bear,
Others have said it best, including and especially Max. My Pals and I were in denial, too, at first. Take your time, don't judge yourself - we each have our own way. At first I would look up different subjects on here then quit for a while. My Pals used this form for a while but doesn't anymore. If you find yourself reading too much that upsets you wait until you're ready.

You're in the right place for help and support. DONT FALL!

Warmly,
Sherry