I saw my ALS doctor in San Antonio today. And I was apparently able to impress on her and her associate how badly I needed relief from excess drooling. I said to both doctors that I was considering suicide if this didn't get taken care of.. So then I had to answer a lot of questions about self harm and why was I thinking of it.. I said I have a 100% fatal illness and I was tracking the joy component in my daily life and constantly drooling took me to zero. If they could fix it, it would get my Joy back to 50%. I was asked what would get it to 100%? I said restore talking and eating.! For a minute they were talking about involuntary commitment. I talked them down from that and said if you want me to not kill myself get me this procedure. That is what I need most right now. I am only suicidal because I have a rag in my mouth. So the lead doctor agreed and dropped involuntary commitment as an item and went to see how quickly I could be gotten in.
Update. Again we had to play around with nurses that can't read. They called me to set up an appointment. But I recorded a message on an old cell phone and called back and left a message that I was still mute so calling isn't a good option. Then I asked a friend to call them and suggest they use my chart. It worked, I am now going in this Thursday in 48 hours to have this procedure and hopefully put an end to this faucet in my mouth.
I love that despite the unfathomable challenges you are enduring, you're still Russ Newton. The way you expained this situation to these doctors is exactly the way I remember you would explain things to us during your years at The Times. Simply, straightforwadly, logically, and indisputably honestly. You don't often see that style of communication.
I hope they can do the botox procedure soon and that it works well. I'm praying for you too. Keep hanging tough. The world is a better place with you in it.
Thats great news!
I too am praying for you Russ you are the toughest Man I know, the picture of you entitled Wisconsin Refugees reminds me of the Russ I knew in the 80's you look fabulous!
Hopefully it will only be the Packers that continue to suck after tomorrow's procedure. LOL!