Sunday, October 26, 2025 – Day 439

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Good morning, friends and family.

Yesterday, I was up and moving right along—getting ready for the road trip to Michigan to see the college crew. Keep in mind, my version of “getting ready” means getting myself cleaned up, dressed, and fed—the bare minimum to be road-trip ready. Cindy, on the other hand, handles everything else: packing, hauling suitcases, and gathering all the ALS gear. So yeah, I’ve got the easy part every time we go somewhere.

I was cruising along pretty well—up at 3:30, blog written and posted by 6:30, formula feeding done by 7:00, bathroom routine by 8:15, and dressed by 8:30. Everything was packed, loaded, and ready to go. The only problem? I was completely wiped out, and my neck ached horribly. I just couldn’t get in the car until that settled down.

So I sat on the couch and melted into the cushions, frustrated. How could I feel so tired and sore after doing so little? My mind started spinning—worrying about the car ride, the bathroom stops, staying upright, staying social, staying engaged with friends. I couldn’t see how it was going to work. After about 30 minutes of internal debate (and with Cindy’s full support), I told her to let everyone know we’d stay back. I didn’t want to drag the party down while feeling like crap.

I went upstairs, and with Cindy’s help adjusting the pillows, climbed into bed with a book. At least I tried to read. Truth is, I was disappointed. Really bummed that ALS keeps making life harder and more uncomfortable. I knew these days were coming, but I’ve done my best to push them off—to enjoy life and not let ALS interfere with the things we love to do. Well… that’s not possible anymore, and I’ve got to face where I am—physically, emotionally, and mentally. I’m not entirely sure what that means yet, except that I’ll have to keep cutting back on physical activities and stay within the “energy conservation” boundaries.

I’ve always hated that term—energy conservation. The first time I heard it last October, I laughed and said, “What are you talking about?” It never even crossed my mind that there would be limits on what I could do in a day. But slowly, I learned what it meant. And now, a year later, it’s crystal clear. Just getting dressed can wipe me out—and if I add a shower into the mix, forget it.

Anyway, I think you understand where I’m at physically. I’ll keep adjusting, but I know I’ll have to start passing on more invites and staying home more often. Luckily, I really do enjoy being home—and that’s a good thing, because I’ll be here more, especially as the weather turns.

Everybody enjoy your Sunday! I’m going to do the same—no matter the limitations. Love you guys! ❤️

Photos from Michigan: everyone’s wearing Andy’s Army shirts. It was incredibly moving to see those pictures—the smiles, the love, the support. Thank you for sending them. And just to add a laugh—earlier in the day, when Cindy came up to check on me, she said, “You could’ve stayed in bed inMichigan and the girls would’ve all come join you.”
Huh? What? My own harem? Did I miss an opportunity?! Looks like the answer is “yes I did!”