My first symptoms were speech problems, which began in 1994, these gradually worsened, followed by swallowing difficulties.
My first limb weakness was in 1999 when I noticed myself stumbling while working as a geologist in Labrador.
I made the rounds of all the neurologists in my city for about four years, finally receiving a diagnosis from a neurologist in Montreal during late 2000.
Oddly, my speech is very erratic varying from poor to OK. My swallowing symptoms have improved in the past five years. Limb weakness and breathing problems, however, have relentlessly worsened. I cannot walk now without a walker, and have used a scooter for most of my mobility for the past three years.
My arms have begun to weaken in the past year and are particularly bad for fine motor skills. I play the piano and over the past year have lost considerable ability.
I am still driving and working, when I am not enjoying the Arizona sun, which helps my spasticity.
