The New Year

With the advent of the year 2009, I figured it was time to tell all how I am doing. First off, I want to thank my number one caregiver...my wife Atring. Without her I would be not only lost, but stuck in a quagmire with no hope. Also, I want to thank my sons...Rick, Peter, Nathan, and Tito,...who are always there when I need them. And special thanks to Eileen, Leslie and Tenisha..for the encouraging looks and happy smiles.
Well my progression is moving faster. I am unable to talk with intelligible words. I sound like a caveman directing a sabre tooth tiger run. I do use the whiteboard a lot. When I run out of ink in my pens, I know I have been too mouthy. I like the computer that the ALS Association gave me to help with my communication, and it works...but it is heavy and hard to carry around and the battery has a short life..only about 6 hours.
My walking is getting worse...I cannot walk very well without a cane. I don't use the cane too much in the house..but I notice I have a hard time standing up from a sitting position. Also if I turn too fast, or don't pick up my right foot, I trip and fall down. I have bruised my butt, but no other injuries. I usually come up laughing at my clumsiness. Atring has the look of concern and shock. But so far no serious consequences.
I am reminded though of Catfish Hunter, a famous pitcher for the Oakland A's and New York Yankees. He had ALS, and died from a fall down the stairs. I can see how that happened. So I try to be careful.
I have a hard time walking up stairs, and even walking one step to a curb.
I find myself getting tired, if have been walking too much.
I do not eat much. I get 99.9% of my food through a tube to my stomach. It works well, and I never feel hungry. And I have stayed at a steady 130 lbs now for two months. That is a good thing. I still eat pudding and ice cream sometimes. I still like to drink bourbon and coke..but slowly..because I still choke very easily.
I like to munch on cookies and chips but each time I do, I choke.
I am especially bad when Atring cooks and I smell it, I go crazy. I want to eat also, but I know I will choke. I usually get a taste but that is about it.

My hand are staring to get weaker. I have a hard time buttoning my shirt, or zipping my zipper. I cannot open letters...my gripping and strength in my hand is very weak. I can still write, and type (duh!). But I can feel and see them getting weaker.

But honestly, I am living. I update the pages on Patients Like Me; I read emails about ALS from other Pals and Cals from the Yahoo site. I read books a lot, I love to read. I enjoy TV sports..football, basketball, and baseball. And I love talking to Atring. She is a blast.

Thanks you all for reading, leave me a message ok?
I pray to God that he will protect all of you.