So, how is the soon to be Over the Hill guy doing? Well, Jim has ALS, ALS does not have Jim, I can tell you that! I am still amazed at his positive attitude and outlook on life. Though there are daily struggles, he never complains about anything, nor has he ever had the "poor me" attitude. He remains focused on his Faith, and the power of prayer. I am truly in awe of his strength.
It has been 5 months since Jim's stem cell treatment, and it's hard to say exactly what the results have been. I will say, that his progression is slower than I expected, being that ALS is known for its rapid progression. He is still walking and talking (though not clearly), and he feels no effects in his legs. Eating is probably is biggest struggle, since he has no tongue muscle. Something that would normally take about 15 minutes to eat, can take Jim up to an hour. For someone who used to love food and love to eat, it's now more of a burden. Because of the minimal strength in his arms, we decided that it was in his best interest (and those around him), that he no longer drove. A few weeks ago, he sold his truck, a very bittersweet day.
Jim continues on a daily regimen of supplements, and sees his Functional Neurologist about once a month. He has never been one to enjoy reading, but it's something that his slower lifestyle has allowed time for. He just finished reading the book, Flight to Heaven, by Capt. Dale Black. He absolutely loved it, and highly recommends it.
At the time of Jim's diagnosis, we were given an "ALS Patient Packet", it was a fat packet, full of information from breathing machines, handicap van conversions, ALS support groups, to a Power of Attorney form, just to name a few. It's nothing you would take pleasure in reading, and I haven't opened that packet again since the day we were given it almost a year and a half ago. Also included in the packet was a Handicap Parking Application. I remember telling Jim at the time, that I wasn't about to apply for a handicap placard. Handicap placards were for the elderly or those in a wheelchair, and since Jim wasn't in a wheelchair, I would not be applying for one. Kind of like when you call in sick to work, when you're not sick, and then wake up they next day with a fever. Ya, karma, we didn't need a handicap sticker. Not only that, but what about the stares or dirty looks, or even a nasty note left on our car from those that saw two presumably able bodies getting out of a car parked at the blue curb? Nope, wasn't going to happen. I kept that tucked away as well, and if God willing, hoped to never have to use it.
Yesterday, Jim and I went to the theater and saw Son of God, great movie by the way. A gut wrenching reminder of the pain Jesus went through for our salvation. As we were driving around and around the parking structure, trying to find a place to park, Jim mentioned how nice it would be if we had a handicap sticker. I reiterated to him, that we didn't need one. If there ever came a time where he could no longer walk, then of course, I would be happy to apply, and after finally finding a parking spot on the back row, that was the end of that.
While lying in bed last night, I got to thinking about that dreaded blue tag again. Something was gnawing at me, as it usually does when I'm trying to fall asleep. It was then I realized, that one, my christian faith tells me there is no such thing as karma, it's all part of God's plan, and two, for someone who is battling ALS, wheelchair or not, does he not deserve this simple accomodation? Of course he does! So, today I completed his handicap application, and we will park at the blue curb without fear of criticism or judgement. In fact, I pity the person who decides to give us a dirty look or snide comment, you just might get an earful from this ALS fighter's wife!
I know a handicap sticker is not the most exciting of news and may not be worthy of most blogs, however, it's the small acheivements that gets us through our ALS journey, thanks for listening!
Grateful for all of you,
Jim and Dionne
I know a handicap sticker is not the most exciting of news and may not be worthy of most blogs, however, it's the small acheivements that gets us through our ALS journey, thanks for listening!
Grateful for all of you,
Jim and Dionne
"Being consumed by what people think of you, is the fastest way to forget what God thinks of you"
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| There's always next year... |
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| O'Neill Regional Park |