Eric's Legs Buckled Beneath Him

Yesterday, Eric was just standing with his arms overhead and working on a latch on the back of my car when his legs collapsed under him and he fell to the ground. I was in the house, so I had no idea. It took him a bit to get up, since he has declining strength in all limbs and his core. 

At PT yesterday, they showed him several ways to get back up.

We just got off the phone with Dr. Virginia Osborne of Grass Valley - who specializes in IV therapy and environmental medicine (which she believes can trigger ALS) - and have an initial appointment for a consultation with her next Wednesday. Then, the next day, she will start an IV with nutrients for Eric. We will make our decision - which doctor to work with - after we meet face-to-face, but we felt good about her in our phone conversation.

Tomorrow, my friend Nancy will drive Eric to Santa Rosa - back to Dr. Parpia at Gordon Medical to get testing for Lyme and heavy metals. This is a 3-hour drive EACH WAY. Though we really liked her, we're not sure Eric can handle the traveling 3x per week for several months!

On Friday, he will go see his PCP to learn about potential ways to get the IV treatments prescribed, and thus covered by his insurance. As well, she may be able to offer other resources we haven't yet discovered.

I know the MDA will help with getting Eric necessary medical equipment. As well, another friend is checking out the guidelines for receiving In-Home Support Services in Placer Co... Can I be his paid caregiver?

Also, we spoke with two friends last night about a fundraising event they would like to organize for him - ideally in early August - in order to afford his treatments and keep us afloat as all this unfolds. The thought is a BBQ, music, family social in the park or other good location.
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Again, soooooooo much gratitude for our community - for YOU - stepping up to support our family through this uncertain and scary time.