I am honoured to be chosen as the 2025 Ambassador for the Cold Lake Walk Together for ALS on June 7.
My journey with ALS started around June 2023. I noticed that I was having a hard time gripping things like my coffee mug with my left hand. My arm felt weaker when I was working on things around the house and garage. I initially thought it was the start of arthritis. My family doctor referred me to a Neurologist who was concerned about my symptoms, which included weakness, muscle loss, and muscle twitching. The Neurologist sent me for nerve testing (EMG) on Dec 5, 2023. It was at this EMG appointment that the doctor told my wife and me the devastating news; the diagnosis appeared to be ALS. It was a complete shock. We were stunned.
“What next? What does this mean?” I had no idea what my future would hold, but I knew it wasn’t good. It broke our hearts to tell our two daughters that I have ALS. Would our three grandchildren be able to even understand? I began breaking the difficult news to other family members.
The love and support I immediately got from my family and close friends was heartwarming. The strength our daughters have shown over these past two years is a blessing. My wife has been my sole caretaker and my rock. They are with me every step of the way. They are actively involved in my treatment plan and have attended each appointment at the Kaye Clinic and the ALS Clinic. They have found ways to support me as I adapt to changes and challenges.
I have always been a hands-on guy. Working jobs that require being outdoors no matter the weather, using tools, maintaining vehicles, repairing small engines, and managing my own small business. I love to spend time with my grandkids, camping and walking outside. Now, with the progression of my ALS, I am unable to use my left arm/hand. The strength in my right arm, legs and torso has also begun to rapidly decline. The changes and challenges have limited my ability to do the things I enjoy, but I try to remain positive every day.
Along with my ALS, I also live with Vascular Dementia. This is another obstacle for me and my family, as this disease is progressing as well.
The support I receive from the Kaye Clinic, ALS Clinic, and ALS Society of Alberta is always compassionate and caring. The ALS Society of Alberta has been a great resource for me and my family through phone call check-ins, access to support groups, and especially their Equipment Loan Program. The equipment needed to function with ALS can be expensive and daunting to obtain, so we are beyond grateful for the help of the ALS Society of Alberta.
I have made walking a priority over the last several years of my life. I enjoy the peaceful time spent while making miles outside, no matter the season or weather. I will continue to walk for as long as my body allows me to, even though I have slowed down and am unable to go as far.
Join us on June 7th at Lakeland Lutheran Church, Cold Lake, as I walk with my family, friends, and loved ones in support of those living with ALS. Let’s make a difference, together.