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ALS: A Guide for Patients
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| What follows is the late
Dr. D. Eric Livingston's patient's guide to ALS. It is
written from the unique perspective of a physician, and one who is afflicted
with ALS.
The Guide is written in five parts: |
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by D. Eric Livingston, M.D. I am a 38 year old Physician. During a ski trip to Colorado in February 1995, I noticed some mild weakness. In March I was diagnosed with ALS. I had been practicing medicine for about 7 years. My understanding of ALS was limited because it's fairly uncommon and I'd never encountered a patient with the disease. I have since read and learned more about it. Unfortunately, I found that helpful information wasn't always easy to find. As a result I put together a single source of information and resources on ALS, primarily written for newly diagnosed patients and their families. Through sharing information we can make living with ALS as comfortable as possible. I've tried to create a practical source of information under the following five topics: "What is ALS?," "Practical Tips," "Organizations & Resources," "Drugs" & "Treatment Centers." It is important that you realize I am not an expert on ALS. I am a patient with a medical background which offers some advantages to interpreting available information. I wish to avoid giving any specific medical advice. That is something best left between you and your doctor. I do hope to pass along some information that will help you get the most out of all the medical resources available. Please first discuss any changes that you may wish to make as a result of reading this with your doctor. I'm sure many PALS (Person(s) with ALS) and their families have a tremendous body of knowledge and experience to share. I encourage you to look into the online ALS Bulletin Boards and services, as an excellent format to share and exchange information. |