Anatomy of Isolation: THIS Is Why We Want An ALS Residence In Maine

Tony Judt was a Professor at NYU, a gifted writer a chronicler of history. Tony died in 2010, but left behind a wealth of writings which share his personal experience with ALS.

This article speaks to the frustration and isolation he felt at night. As he points out, one thing that makes ALS different from the rest of neurological disorders is a blessing and a curse: the mind remains totally aware as the body deteriorates.

Linda and I were discussing isolation just yesterday. As families were gathering to celebrate the 4th (in between rain showers), we were here, alone and watching TV. Please understand this isn't a complaint. It's merely the reality of the disease. If we want to do something that was previously spontaneous, it now takes planning and time. We move so slowly and I require so much accommodation, that it causes people to balk at including us in many activities. Understandable.

What Tony discusses in this article was his truth at the time. I'll resist further pontificating and let the article speak for itself. Please read it and really think about how you could help us build a facility that would prevent social isolation and mitigate the effects of a night such as Tony describes.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/04/anatomy-of-isolation-als_n_409901.html