Name: Linda R. Buckner

Hometown, State: Fayetteville, AR

Age: 69

Family:
Husband: James L. (Jim)
Sons: James L. "Jim" Jr. (47) and Matthew D. "Matt" (44)
Daughter: Cynthia "Cindy" Thomas (deceased Dec. 2003 at age 45 from Spinal Muscular Atrophy)
7 grandsons and 1 granddaughter, ages 11-26

Hobbies/Interests:
Church, family, friends, computer

Date of ALS diagnosis:
May 1998, although I was aware of symptoms in spring of 1997

Tell us about your life before ALS:
Active in church with husband, children, grandchildren and friends. Supportive of husband’s work and civic activities. Employed for many years. Last position was administrative assistant for Director of Women’s Athletics at University of Arkansas.

Tell us about your life with ALS:
Less active lifestyle. Independence is difficult to give up. Still participate in church activities and with family and friends as much as possible. Belong to MDA and ALS support groups. Try to be supportive of and help others deal with their health issues as much as possible when needed.

Tell us how ALS has brought new significance to any aspect of your life - family, attitude, hobbies/passions, career, etc. :
I have ALS; ALS does not have me. I realize and appreciate the value of life and the fragility of each day so much more. The love between my husband and me grows stronger each day. My love for my family has become so deep it is indescribable. Love of and for friends is invaluable. When you give a hug, you receive one in return. I hope my legacy will be that I did not give up. Faith in God is the answer when there is no other way to get through each day.

List your favorite quote: Psalm 91:4. “He will cover you with His feathers; you will take refuge under his wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield.”

Do you have a “life motto” or “profound words to live by”: Once you start something, don’t give up – see it through. This attitude has helped me remain positive since my diagnosis of ALS.

Has there been an “a-ha!” moment or a specific turn of events that has helped you live with ALS?
There has not been one huge a-ha moment, but a number of small ones. Each time I lose a function, I grieve for that loss for a short period of time. Then I think a-ha, there are still other things I can do, so the a-ha moment is an ongoing process.

Is there anything else about you and/or ALS that you want to share with people who read your story?
My daughter died at the age of 45 after a 14-year battle with SMA. She fought so hard to live as normal a life as possible. She is my role model. I can do no less in my struggle with ALS.