International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations.

  Cheryl's Journal

Site Mission

To serve as a resource and support for PALS, their families and caregivers and to 

unite with other PALS to educate the public about ALS.

ALS stands for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis which is also known as Motor Neuron Disease and Lou Gehrig's Disease. In a nutshell, ALS is described as a fatal, incurable neurological disorder. The disease first gained national attention when the great baseball player, Lou Gehrig, died of the disease in 1941.

Lacking funding, research has been too little and too slow compared to the research of other diseases. ALS has been described as the most devastating of all the neurological disorders;  

it can strike anyone, anytime, regardless of race, financial status, or ethnic background.  Although ALS research has increased in the last five years, there is much more to be done. 

Our voices must be heard!

Drug Development and Clinical Trials ..   Drug Development Update

Tracheotomy in the Patient with ALS

ALS is a progressive neuromuscular disorder which weakens the muscles, eventually resulting in respiratory failure or the inability of the lungs to.... continued

Managing Depression in Persons with ALS

Persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) face ongoing changes and losses as the disease progresses, resulting in unavoidable grief and depression. Struck by shock and disbelief at first....continued

Minimizing ALS Fatigue

Although the course of ALS is unpredictable, fatigue is one outcome that is predictable, resulting in muscle weakness and spasticity. Fatigue can range from mild lassitude to extreme exhaustion.  People often complain of tiredness, dwindling strength, and lack of energy.  Despite the adverse affects of fatigue, symptoms can be minimized through effective ...continued

Reducing the Risk of Falling

Persons with ALS may be at risk for falling because of impaired mobility or fatigue and precautions need to be taken. Loss of balance, tripping and slipping are common causes of falling and may result in bruises, broken bones, lacerations or head injuries. While many falls do not result in physical harm, falling even once can cause some people to be extremely fearful of engaging in any activities, including leaving their homes. Although ...continued

Minimizing Restless Night

Trouble sleeping at night is a common problem in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  Difficulty in changing position, aching muscles,  joints, respiratory problems and anxiety often prevent people from falling asleep or staying asleep. Consequently,     a nightly pattern of sleeplessness may result in excessive daytime fatigue, breathing distress, irritability, and ineffective coping ...continued

Preventing and Treating Complications of Immobility

People with limited mobility are a risk for complications as prolonged immobility or inactivity may cause changes in the muscles and joints and affect Read more

Soy Nutritive Content

Like other legumes, soybeans are rich in nutrients. Read about the macronutrients and micronutrients found in soy foods. Read more

Caregivers and Back Strain   Read   

ALS Dictionary  

The ALS Dictionary is a list of words and their definitions, for terms related to ALS.  Read

Patient Bill of Rights for People Living With ALS  Read

The Americans with Disabilities Act: Frequently Asked Questions

Veterans Benefits for ALS

The Veterans Affairs Hospitals offer many services that can be of great benefit to veterans with ALS. Read

Ten Ways to Avoid Being "Quacked".... Read

Remembering Lou Gehrig....  Read

  Visit the  ALS
Network Forum  

The purpose of this forum is to post questions, answer questions, give opinions, and share information relating to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Experienced ALS patients are very helpful in assisting those who are newly diagnosed. This forum belongs to those suffering with neuromuscular diseases, and those that care for them.

Creatine - Creating Hope

Should patients use creatine without consulting their doctor?

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Exercises to prevent stiffness/pain.

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