Initially my sole purpose for writing a blog was to keep friends and family updated on how I am doing and what specific prayer requests I may have. Since many people I know aren’t on Facebook and those that are might not want to read my lengthy posts a blog seemed like the perfect solution. Also, when people come to visit I don’t want the conversation to be all about my ALS. It honestly gets tiring and a bit depressing to be constantly talking about my disease progression and emotional state. I still enjoy catching up on life and discussing kids, books, hockey, anything but ALS;) when I see friends. As I thought about it more I became aware of different reasons to write a blog.
One thing that interested me, excited me in fact was the idea of actually creating the blog. Umm let me rephrase… I got excited to pick out the blog’s theme, it’s colours, fonts and photos. Actually setting the whole thing up overwhelmed me and my technical ability. The blog’s set up was done entirely by my computer savvy friend Rachel. Thank you Rachel! In addition to the design I began to appreciate the creativity I could express in my writing. Living with ALS has created a new reality for me and with this new reality comes a lot of insight that I am interested in sharing. ALS has taken my voice, but having the opportunity to still be heard is very important to me. Most of the “speaking” I currently do through my tablet is to ask for something or answer a question. The time it takes to type what I want to say doesn’t lend itself well to witty dialogue or a quick joke. And so I look forward to the outlet that this blog can be for me.
It also occurred to me that a personal blog documenting my journey could be a way to increase ALS awareness. Most people, myself included, prior to my diagnosis, don’t really understand how devastating the disease actually is. It is this lack of understanding that makes finding a cure seem less urgent. ALS is not rare and it isn’t incurable… it is UNDERFUNDED. I have a lot more to say on this topic and I will, but for now I just want to express my hope that I can make a difference, however small in shedding some light on the way ALS impacts all those affected by it.
Thanks for stopping by… I look forward to sharing my journey with you. ❤️
Yay! So happy you’ve started this!!
Thanks Deborah!
Leanne, what a great idea to start a blog! You’re an incredible writer! 💕 Looking forward to reading more! I’m hoping this will help raise more awareness about ALS!😘
Thanks Ingrid! I hope so.
You are amazing. I will share your blog and journey far and wide. Your light shines so bright. Xo
I appreciate that Bonnie. Thank you. xo
Love this Leanne!!
Thanks Julie!
I love it! I think this is an amazing creative writing outlet!! You are an incredible lady, so proud of your strength ❤️❤️
Thanks Sharon. I am excited to write:)
So proud of you!♥️
Thanks Yvonne!
I look forward to all of your posts…. much love Leanne!!❤️❤️
I appreciate that Tracey! I hope I don’t disappoint;) xo
Leanne,
Thank you for sharing your story and journey through your blog. My heart breaks learning all this as you have always been a sacred soul.
So proud your using this platform to get awareness out on ALS. Sending love and keeping you in our continuous prayers.
Lots of love
I appreciate that so much Amber xo. I hope that things are going well for you.
Congrats on creating a blog! Great use of technology to create your ‘new’ voice!
Thanks Shane! I have always been a paper and pencil girl but embracing technology has become a necessity;)
Well done Leanne! Looking forward to reading more!
Thank you Dianne:)
Leanne I LOVE 💕 this idea!!!
I will definitely be following you. It keeps me close to you even though I am far away.😘😘
Thanks Auntie Dianne xo
This is an awesome idea, Leanne! Thank you!! You are a very intelligent women and this is such a great way to share all of your thoughts, passions and insights from your experience of living with ALS!! I’ve missed your witty banter,too😘
Lol thank you Michelle xo
I love that you have found an exciting creative outlet. I absolutely enjoyed reading what you’ve written so far and I am looking forward to reading you more. What a beautiful job. Words can’t begin to express how proud I am of you… and in awe I am of your tenacity, strength and determination. What’s really beneficial for me is that I can get to know you even more… which is such a pleasure. I love you sister and friend! Way to go!!!
Thank you for the vote of confidence Brooks. I love you too xo.
God Bless You Leanne, Thanks for sharing your Life Journey with us. It’s also so good to hear how you are since it’s hard to communicate on the phone. I too hope this raises the awareness of A.L.S. so that, if you so wish, experimental drugs can be used quicker. I continue to Pray for Miracles and Cures and Courage and Blessings for Your Family and Care Givers. All my Love to You and Yours……
Leanne I love that we can stay in touch in this way as well. The beautiful person you are shines through in everything you do. Love you and miss you so much!!
Lorena you are so great at keeping in touch! I am grateful for your friendship. xo
You’re an incredible mother, teacher, and friend to all you meet so no surprise that you feel a need to keep everyone in-the-know with respect to your journey. And, hey, we all want to know what’s on your mind, where we can help, and of course any way we can support you to continue to explore carrying out your dreams. You already know, I’m terrible at asking for help even when I may need it so reading this blog will help me to better understand your wants/needs, arguably others too. Excited to hear more as you share. Keep your chin up honey, I love you.
Yep I rarely go on Facebook; curious who makes significant time for social media because I struggle to see the value vs. my focus on being a parent, working and resting. So thankful to Rachel for building this site!
That is so sweet Cory… thank you:) So grateful to have you on this journey with me. xo
Good Morning Leanne, OMG its so so good to be able to have a conversation with you again. When I read your Blogs I feel Im right there beside you, when you say your laughing Im laughing right along with you. I thank God always for what your teaching me as a Christian. You are, and always have been, an inspiration to me, no wonder my Son loves you so much. You shine beauty from your Soul. There are not a lot of people who have that Gift, but You do. Your the most a Mother can ever be with such Love kindness and patience. And this extends to all people that’s just who You are. Hugs to You All, I hope to see All of You Soon. God Bless and take care.