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Hometown, state: Channelview, Tex.
Age: 52
Family (spouse/partner; child, grandchildren): Wife, Connie, and five children, three grandchildren.
Hobbies/Interests: Writing, reading my Bible, spending time with family and friends, watching sports and movies.
Favorite quote: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Date of ALS diagnosis: August 2007
Tell us about your life before ALS: I lived an active life as a husband, father, associate pastor and salesman. As a Christian I felt fulfilled, I had good health, a faithful wife, kids and grandchildren. Sharing laughter and having fun with family and friends was my greatest joy.
Tell us about your life with ALS: I only worked a few months after being diagnosed with ALS. As my physical strength weakened, it became increasingly difficult to do things on my own. My first challenge with ALS was my voice; then my hands became very weak; and I was unable to care for my own personal needs. Eventually, walking was no longer an option so I resigned to a power chair. I now totally depend on the Lord, my wife and children for my daily care.
Do you have a “life motto” or profound words to live by? When the battle of life is raging, turn to God who is able to sustain and keep your heart and mind. Be determined to live and overcome every obstacle, no matter what circumstances you are facing.
Has there been an “aha!” moment or a specific turn of events that has helped you live with ALS? What has stood out to me more than anything else is the love of God from pastors, church members, family and friends who have stood with me in prayer and in sharing their time and resources. There has never been a time in my life that I have felt so loved by my Heavenly Father and my wife and kids, who have faced this adversity with love, courage, strength and the tenacity to keep on fighting the good fight of faith.
Tell us how ALS has brought new significance to any aspect of your life — family, attitude, hobbies/passions, career, etc.: The word of God sustains me during my private moments of doubt and despair. As my wife, kids and mother-in-law have journeyed with me through the various stages of ALS, I am amazed at their commitment to love and respect me as a husband, father and son. The greater the challenge, the greater their love. Their physical and emotional strength to be by my side on a daily basis has given me the drive to fight and live. I am writing a book to help encourage others who are also challenged with ALS to continue to live life to the fullest and to never give up.
Is there anything else about you and/or ALS that you want to share with people who read your story? Whether you have little or no knowledge of caring for someone with ALS, the challenges physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially are great. As family or friends, your presence and help are needed. Make time to assist someone facing this dreadful disease.
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