Last November, my beloved friend, John Nicolaisen, aka Nick, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Since then, he has lost strength and breathing ability. Nick was my college boyfriend and travel mate for a year in Italy in the mid-70s. We both taught English at the British School in Milan. Though we went on to marry other people, we have maintained our friendship for over 50 years. Needless to say, he is near and dear to me.
On Sunday, April 27, ALS Northwest is hosting its annual ALS Walk in Bend, Oregon. Nick and his wife, Joene, are assembling a team to request donations for ALS research. In Nick’s words, “ALS Northwest is a terrific asset for people like me, providing information, support, and equipment needed to get through the days and weeks. I have not been too reliant on them yet, but I know that day is coming. This year, I have been asked to ‘cut the ribbon’ for the walk in Bend. (There are 5 other walks in other cities in Oregon.) So I’m a VIP ALS kinda person (a little ALS humor). And since I can’t walk more than 25 yards without having to sit down, I’m riding in a motorized scooter, so that’ll be cool.”
If you are looking for a worthy cause, please consider clicking the link below and hitting the donate link. Any amount would be appreciated.
As Nick says, “I hate asking for $$, but this is a good cause and it’s one that is real for me.”
link: http://secure.alsnorthwest.org/goto/JohnNicolaisen2025
If that link doesn’t work, then try this one: https://bit.ly/42DuQUs
Sadly, Nick is the third person I know well who has been diagnosed with ALS. Ongoing research is critical to help others who will be diagnosed in the future. If you can, please do what you can to add to those research coffers.
Here is a photo of Nick recently with one of his two grandsons, Jeter.
20 Minutes a Day 
Len I would like to make a contribution, but Safari can’t open the page. Can you give me any alternative? Carol
Hi Carol,
Try this link: https://bit.ly/42DuQUs
Thank you!
Len
I was diagnosed in March 2017, but was running around from doctor to doctor before I finally got a result that I was free from MND ALS. Mine started on top and progressed into the bottom. I could walk very little but need assistance as I have no balance. It is sad all the time that we thought this disease had no cure with all the technology we have, while some formulas at there can relieve all symptoms and get this of ALS. I’m passing this information to anyone who needs it, because www. madibaherbalcenter. com has the right cure and caregiver for this disease.I took various supplements, medicine prescribed by a neurologist, massage, and physiotherapy, still the disease was progressing very fast until the ALS formula from that company.
So sorry to hear about your friend, Len. It’s a tough, tough disease.
Not sure you knew, but Jen Slaski’s dad died from ALS.
Sending special hugs,
Jeanne
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Thanks, Jeanne. Yes, I know just how tough this can be after watching one close friend die of it. Nick’s such a sweetheart. I am very sad for him and his family, and also for me, losing my friend. Life can be hard. I didn’t know Jen’s dad died from ALS. What a rocky time she’s had!
Thanks for the hugs,
Len
My first ALS symptom occurred in 2016, but was diagnosed in 2018. I had severe symptoms ranging from shortness of breath, balance problems, couldn’t walk without a walker or a power chair, i had difficulty swallowing and fatiue. I was given medications which helped but only for a short burst of time, then I decided to try alternative measures and began on ALS Formula treatment from Aknni herbs centre, It has made a tremendous difference for me (Visit ww w. aknniherbscentre.c om). I had improved walking balance, increased appetite, muscle strength, improved eyesight and others.
So sorry I missed your comment. I’m also very sorry to hear that you’ve been experiencing severe symptoms. My heart goes out to you. Thank you for responding to my post.