From:  ALS and Beyond
Carmel Armon, M.D., Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA

     ALS may rob you of your body.  It does not rob you of your soul.  You live in a society that emphasizes patient autonomy.  You will be able to maintain yours.
     While embarking on a difficult endeavor, you are not going along.  Families and friends come closer.  You will discover new friends.  Other people with ALS are available and willing to share in the ups and downs of the journey. 
     There are many dimensions to treatment and many professionals available to provide it.  The resources available to patients are without precedent.
     You continue to be a valued member of society who can contribute to your family and your friends through the human values in which you believe.  You continue to play a role in educating your children and providing support to your family.
     Due to the intense interest in people with ALS, the options available to you exceed those that were available to previous generations and are expected to increase.  While no one has chosen this path, most have traversed it with courage and with dignity.