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Hometown, state: Cherry Valley, Calif.
Age: 41
Family (spouse/partner; child, grandchildren): Wife, Missy, and two children ages 10 and 12.
Hobbies/Interests: Prior to ALS, I was big into motorcycles. Now that the disease has progressed, I focus most of my time and energy on my kids.
Favorite quote: “Always do what you say you’re going to do.”
Date of ALS diagnosis: August 2007
Tell us about your life before ALS: Prior to my diagnosis of ALS I was a very active, hands-on person. We were in the process of building our dream home, and I had recently been hired as a fire chief, culminating my fire service career. I spent a lot of time participating with my children and their activities, including surfing, horseback riding, gymnastics, dance, swim team and motocross, just to name a few.
Tell us about your life with ALS: Life with ALS is proving to be quite challenging. My wife, who has been a stay-at-home mom for nine years, is now back in the workforce because I am no longer able to work. Our day-to-day lives continue changing as my disease progresses and my need for assistance grows. Family activities are constantly being reevaluated based on my abilities to participate and the financial constraints my family now faces.
Do you have a “life motto” or profound words to live by? Don’t put off ‘til tomorrow what you can do today, for tomorrow may be too late.
Has there been an “aha!” moment or a specific turn of events that has helped you live with ALS? My “aha” moment was definitely the day I got involved with the MDA.
Tell us how ALS has brought new significance to any aspect of your life — family, attitude, hobbies/passions, career, etc.: If there is one thing ALS has taught me, it is to pay attention to detail, be it your kids, nature or a good book. Make sure you take the time to take it all in.
Is there anything else about you and/or ALS that you want to share with people who read your story? Remember there is no such thing as “the right time,” but there is always “right now.” Take charge of your life; don’t let your life take charge of you.
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