As my June message is being posted I can report that my ALS continues to progress.  Most of the day I spend in my bed, sometimes watching television and sometimes dozing off in joyful anticipation of Thursdays when my caregiving team uses the Hoyer Lift to get me out of bed and into my power wheelchair so I can see a bit of the world.  Oh, what a treat that is!

The first part of the process is getting me positioned in the sling which is no small feat!  A team of caregivers roll me from side to side while I’m in bed. Then they slide the sling under me and once I am in the proper position, the lift is brought to my bedside, and the sling is connected to the Hoyer Lift.  Once the sling is securely attached to the lift then it’s up and away as the lift me into my power wheelchair.  Now comes the best part ─ I can then get to the front door of our house, carefully go down the little ramp and then glide down the driveway to the street!  At last, I’m sitting in the morning sun, listening to the birds in the nearby trees, surrounded by a team of people who happily shower me with love.

The photo below shows me smiling with my handsome son Kyle and sweet caregiver Millie on each side of my power chair happily sharing my joy. I am so thankful that the Hoyer Lift and power wheelchair are available and even more grateful for those who are care for me.  Thank you all and please stay tuned for monthly updates.