The Journey of a Veteran Living with ALS
Introduction
After experiencing muscle weakness and twitching in his hand and arm, Michael received a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2022. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and loss of movement.
Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment
Michael’s ALS diagnosis marked a turning point in his life. The realization that the disease has no cure was devastating. However, his desire to be present for his family and extend his functionality motivated him to explore treatment options.
Upon consulting an ALS clinic, Michael’s neurologist recommended RADICAVA ORS® (edaravone), an oral medication that has been shown to slow the progression of ALS by 33% compared to a placebo. Michael carefully considered the benefits and risks of the treatment and decided to proceed.
Emotional Support and Family Bonds
Within three months of Michael’s ALS diagnosis, his wife passed away unexpectedly. This tragic loss deepened his determination to support his children, providing them with emotional stability during this challenging time.
Reinventing Identity
As Michael’s symptoms progressed, he adapted to his changing physical abilities. Recognizing that he could no longer engage in strenuous activities, he focused on reinventing himself and finding new ways to contribute. He discovered a passion for cooking with his daughter, sharing his culinary knowledge and creating meaningful moments.
Advocacy and Awareness
Michael became an advocate for veterans, raising awareness about the increased risk of ALS among military members. He encouraged recently diagnosed veterans to seek specialized care at ALS clinics.
Finding Support and Sharing Stories
Through Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America’s Share Your Story program, Michael found solace in connecting with others living with ALS. By sharing his experiences and learning from others, he realized the importance of staying present and finding adaptable ways to live with the disease.
Conclusion
Michael’s journey with ALS has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Despite the progressive nature of the disease, he remains determined to live a meaningful life, surrounded by the love of his family and the support of the ALS community. His story serves as an inspiration to others facing adversity, demonstrating the power of resilience and the importance of finding support and purpose.
Additional Information on ALS
What is ALS?
ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons, the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement. The disease causes muscle weakness and stiffness, eventually leading to paralysis and respiratory failure.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of ALS is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including:
- Age: Most people are diagnosed with ALS between the ages of 40 and 70.
- Military service: Veterans are twice as likely to develop ALS than those who have not served in the military.
- Family history: Having a family member with ALS increases the risk of developing the disease.
Treatment Options
Currently, there is no cure for ALS, but treatments are available to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. These treatments include:
- Medications (e.g., riluzole, edaravone)
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Respiratory support
Research and Hope
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the causes of ALS and developing new treatments and therapies. Clinical trials are underway to investigate potential cures and disease-modifying therapies.
