Wednesday, April 2, 2025 - Day 232

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Good morning, everyone!

These days are flying by. I swear I was just here five minutes ago saying hi. Where do they all go?

Yesterday was a marathon—taxes in Huntley in the morning, a pulmonary appointment in Evanston at 2:00, with a pit stop in Crystal Lake to pick up Cindy. I think my ALS appointments are secretly being scheduled far from home so I’ll tire of driving—each one is at least an hour away. Yesterday’s was a solid 90-minute trek. If I can itemize medical miles on next year’s tax return, I might actually break even.

This morning, I’m off to Bannockburn for occupational therapy. That’s another hour-plus drive each way, and in rush hour traffic, no less. I’m getting fitted for two hand splints. As my hand muscles atrophy, simple things—like spreading my thumbs—are becoming more difficult, if not impossible. Holding a pint glass is turning into an extreme sport (see photo). I briefly considered running a 50/50 raffle where people could guess when the glass will finally slip from my grip, but apparently, betting on personal disasters is frowned upon. Probably for the best. When I do drop the glass, let’s just hope it happens outside.

Now, about the Andy’s Army bracelets—wow. Cindy and I were overwhelmed by the response. Truly. It brought tears to my eyes seeing how quickly people jumped in to support us. I honestly expected only a handful of requests… clearly, I was not paying attention. The love, the generosity, the constant offers to help—it’s beyond words. Saying “thank you” feels small in comparison to what you all give, but please know that it comes from the deepest place in my heart. So, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! 🙏

Now that I’ve made the sale, so to speak, I just need the production team (a.k.a. Cindy) to kick it into high gear. Please be patient—it may take a bit to get caught up. I’d help, but, well… I’m all thumbs.

Comcast update—believe it or not, the mystery hole in the ground was actually fixed Monday afternoon. After my fall, I went upstairs to rest my legs. Meanwhile, a suit-and-tie-wearing Comcast rep showed up at the house asking where the hole was. Cindy gave him the tour, and somehow, this desk jockey managed to put everything back together. No idea if his dry-cleaning bill suffered, but hey, the problem is solved. Lucky Cindy was home, or I’d have ended up on another adventure… possibly with a few new bruises.

To those of you who texted me yesterday, I promise to respond today. Maybe I should have Cindy drive while I catch up on replies? Then again… I do love driving, and I won’t have that privilege forever. Might as well enjoy it while I can.

Have a great Wednesday, and thank you again for all your support—and most of all, for your friendship and love. It’s the fuel that keeps us moving forward.

Love you guys! ❤️