Hello, my name is Bert and I was recently diagnosed with ALS on Valentines Day 2022; also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

My brain motor neurons are deteriorating and aren’t sending proper signals to the nerves to the muscles in my extremities - currently left arm. My muscles are wasting and I’ve lost dexterity in my left hand. It’s now progressing to my right arm through spasms. It’ll eventually progress to my legs to induce paralysis. Death is imminent once the lungs are affected as breathing can not function.

The disease was recently brought to light by the “Ice Bucket Challenge” several years ago.

There is no known cure for this fatal disease. It’s terribly underfunded in research and as a patient, you have to seek alternative treatments (outside of the medications which only extend your life by months.)

Im not scared of dying, but I’m a caregiver and I have a lot of responsibilities. A lot of people are dependent on me. I want them to know I tried.

Thank you.