fear

Accidents can and will happen. Do you have a plan for when they do? The two accidents I’ve feared the most since being debilitated with ALS are getting scalded in the shower and smashing my toes against the wall or any other object when I’m in my wheelchair. I…

A few weeks ago, I had a long conversation with a stranger I met while traveling. She was a bold and smart young woman who shared tales of her solo trips as we flew. She insightfully concluded that travel had made her more resilient, aware, and resourceful. I agreed. Growing…

“How are things going?” a friend asked. I explained that I have been concerned about my husband Todd’s breathing. He’s been waking up with headaches, which could be a sign that his breathing strength has declined due to ALS. He might benefit from noninvasive ventilation, but doesn’t want…

“Fear takes control — fear of the unknown Aware of what will hurt you You’re prepared to remain this way So sad yet safe with your afflictions Afraid to start a brand new day.” Those lyrics from the song “Fear (Of the Unknown)” by British alternative band Siouxsie and…

“Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes (turn and face the strange), Ch-ch-changes, just gonna have to be a different man.” — David Bowie Many people dislike change, some to the point of fearing it. According to author and motivational speaker Scott Mautz, writing for Inc.com, “Overcoming a fear of change can be as…

I always have had a fascination with words. It stems from my mom and dad, both of whom instilled in me a voracious appetite for reading and writing. Letters from my grandfather blending humor, pathos, self-deprecation, irreverence, sobriety, fact, and thoughtful opinion cemented the notion that words, carefully pieced together,…