Lauren's Story

When I was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) 8 months ago, I had no idea how it would change everything in my life, and I do mean EVERYTHING. It first started in my legs; I couldn’t stand up to walk. I couldn’t lift my feet over the threshold of the shower to enjoy the feeling of warm water on my back. I couldn’t reach the faucet in the sink to wash my hands because by then I was in a wheelchair. I also experienced how it must feel to drown because at times, even when drinking water, it would (as they say), go down the wrong pipe; I couldn’t get air in or out. I’ve gotten weaker every day and sound like I have a frog in my throat because the muscles in my throat and chest have been atrophied and my coughs are little soft sounds, not productive.  

They also tell me I will not be able to speak or swallow in the near future and will probably need a feeding tube. Eeeck!  

The ALS Clinic, my doctor, and the therapists have all been great; and I am blessed with a wonderful husband and daughter who are my primary care givers; and so many dear friends who show up with dinner or help fold laundry or wipe down the kitchen counter for me. All things I did at one time, taking them for granted.  

But the thing I worried about the most was deciding whether we would have to sell our home to pay for medication that would help slow the disease down or not take the medication at all. Then one day, one of my therapists asked if I’d ever heard of the HealthWell Foundation. I had not.  

Even though I wasn’t very hopeful, I looked up the HealthWell Foundation’s phone number and dialed. WOW! That call changed my life! From the person who answered that call to each and every big-hearted person who has graciously donated to the Foundation, I am so grateful. I encourage everyone reading this to tell anyone in your life facing a medical challenge to make the call to the HealthWell Foundation. 

Thanks for listening, 

Lauren