Only those living through the experience first-hand truly understand the challenges of being a full-time caregiver, particularly for someone living with ALS. The ability to complete basic daily tasks can be overwhelming and the need for help is great.
Adequate nutrition helps maintain energy stores, supports a strong immune system, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. But the demands of caregiving can put healthy meals on the backburner. Here are some tactics to simplify mealtimes while still eating healthy.
When my husband Tom was diagnosed with ALS, we were embraced by the ALS community. But as his health declined, I didn’t really feel ALS was what was stealing my husband from me. I felt more connected to people losing loved ones to frontotemporal dementia, also known as FTD. I did lose my husband to ALS… a particularly cruel and nasty form of ALS that includes FTD.
Throughout September we have highlighted some of this year’s scholarship recipients, sharing their personal stories about the impact ALS has had on their lives. We recently talked with Elita Schmidt to learn a little more about her connection to ALS, what receiving the scholarship means to her, and her future plans in healthcare.
ALS can take away many things, but one thing it cannot take away is love. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, we wanted to highlight one of many stories of love, commitment and ALS. Meet Jonathan and Janetta Michelsen.
Shannon Sullivan, Care Services Manager at The ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter, pens an update for the ALS community within the Commonwealth concerning current offerings and upcoming resources.