Monday, January 26, 2026 – Day 531

Monday, January 26, 2026

Good morning, everyone.

First things first yesterday: a call for help to remove the door to the downstairs powder room closet.

When the toilet safety rails were installed, the closet door no longer had enough clearance to open and close. We left it stuck in the open position, which ended up blocking part of the grab bar. I told myself it was fine—that enough of the bar was still accessible. I’m not sure if that contributed to my fall yesterday, but there’s no good reason to leave obstacles in my path. These handholds exist for safety, and they need to be free and clear.

Thanks to Mark for taking care of it. One less hazard, one less excuse.

After the fall, I was more apprehensive during transfers for the rest of the day. Extra cautious. Deliberate. I did everything I could to make sure I stayed upright. The truth is, the falling worries me. I’ve been lucky so far—no serious injuries—but luck isn’t a forever plan. All it takes is one bad sprain or a broken bone, and a big piece of my independence disappears. That thought scares me.

So I’ll keep evaluating the house, the grab bars, the rails, the setup—adding safety wherever it makes sense. If it starts to look like a nursing home, then we’ve probably done it right.

I did the prudent thing yesterday and kept the day quiet and safe. I read—most of the day, really. Reading to push ALS into the darker corners of the room, where I can’t hear it tormenting me. It’s still there, of course, but a little easier to ignore when I’m lost in a story.

Right now I’m reading The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb. I should finish it today. The only interruption will be the home nurse stopping by—a quick 15-minute visit to grab vitals, ask the usual questions, and move on. I’m grateful for that small routine. It’s reassuring to have someone come to me and quietly keep an eye on things.

Have a great Monday.

Love you guys! ❤️

Photos courtesy of my high school friend Carrie and her husband Neil in Mexico City. It’s nice to see some of Andy’s Army enjoying warm weather.