A woman’s husband was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease, after initially thinking it was just a minor twitch. Andres Albaladejo, 41, had been experiencing muscle weakness, cramps, and high blood pressure, leading his wife Carmen to fear a stroke.
After several tests and scans, including MRIs and electromyography tests, doctors ordered a blood test for neurofilament light chain levels, which showed high markers. The diagnosis was confirmed at the ALS Center at the University of South Florida.
Carmen shared her husband’s journey on social media to raise awareness for ALS warriors. She documented their life after the diagnosis and how it affected them. Andres is now completely wheelchair-bound and has lost almost all use of his hands and leg function.
ALS is a rare neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells’ communication with muscles, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy over time. The couple’s 11-year-old daughter has shown great resilience and compassion throughout this journey.
Carmen wants her husband and other ALS warriors to know they’re not alone in their struggles. She finds strength within herself despite the challenges they face.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/silly-little-symptom-leads-als-diagnosis-2083556