Hello - MND & work

[SunflowerA]

Hi everyone; hello from Sydney, Australia. I was diagnosed in September with ALS after numerous tests commencing in February (symptoms started last Oct); since reconfirmed after more tests and a second opinion. Upper left limb onset. I have a beautiful, supportive family (my husband - my best friend; and our two amazing boys - 13 and 11 years old). I’m still working full time; wondering if anyone else here is still working and living with MND?

[Arcadian]

Hi, sorry to read your diagnosis.
I too have limb onset ALS.

I left a long-term science and engineering job 8 years ago due to an unrelated illness.
I now work in conservation, particularly sustainable woodland management.
The last year has become a bit challenging regarding strength and endurance tasks.
Ironically, sat at a desk writing up reports, or a long meeting in uncomfortable chairs are the more noticeable things for discomfort. Also sat in powered plant & machinery working hydraulic control levers really impacts my arms.
There will come a time soon when coppice cutting with a chainsaw is impractical, hedgelaying with traditional hand tools is almost at a depressing level of struggle and reduced rate of progress.

[AngieCanuck]

I’m not working anymore, sadly 😑 I miss it a lot! I was teaching grade 6 (11year old kids) and typically had 30 to 34 students in my class. Couldn’t manage it, with all the constant progression of illness. Now stay at home mom, and finding just looking after my daughter and house duties can be a challenge. I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis. It forces us to have a hard look at our lives and switch gears to focus on top priorities

[Rich S]

Another ALS diagnosis here ... left work in may n completing I'll health retirement this month...just couldn't complete my physical education duties in prison service n certainly couldn't restrain anyone anymore...its been one of the most difficult bits after the shock of diagnosis...lost my identity or that how it felt...but you do adjust to a slower pace n start to really appreciate what we still have n those around us...
look after yourself...👊

[Olivia H]

Sorry to hear of your diagnosis SunflowerA but glad you are able to continue working for now. I've had this 11 years, worked for over 6 after diagnosis, with adaptations to my work, but took early retirement just under 5 years ago as was getting tired, and I'm doing well, so make sure you put what is best for you first 😊