We never truly know what each new day will bring, and for me, one day in October marked the beginning of an unexpected journey. I woke up about 3 weeks after having the COVID and Flu vaccines with a sensation as if someone had struck a match in my throat. There was an intense burning feeling, and I noticed an unusual amount of saliva—as if my body was trying to extinguish the fire.

As time passed, my speech began to slur, I had trouble swallowing, the inside of my mouth was swollen, and I laughed uncontrollably—even in serious situations. It was odd and unsettling. I called my oldest and dearest friend, Dr. Donald Teplitz (Chief Medical Officer at Good Samaritan Hospital), and saw several doctors, but none could pinpoint the cause. Eventually, I got an appointment with a neurologist, who told my wife—without telling me directly—that she suspected a form of ALS.

That same week, I shared the news with my family. My brother Alan happened to know someone connected to Project ALS, and on December 12, Amy and I attended a fundraising event at Hirshleifers in Manhasset, where we had the pleasure of meeting LL Cool J. More importantly, through this event, we connected with someone who helped us arrange a meeting with Dr. Jinsy Andrews, one of the top ALS specialists at Columbia.

Shortly after, I met with Dr. Andrews, who was incredible, spending over two hours with me, Amy & Lance before determining that I most likely have Pseudobulbar Palsy. I underwent several tests—breathing assessments, an EMG, and more—before starting on a few medications. Nuedexta is supposed to control the uncontrollable laughter (so far, not much luck), and Riluzole is used to slow the progression. Though frustratingly, there’s no way to know if it’s actually working.

This week, we again met with Dr. Andrews, who spent an unbelievable amount of time with us and is adding some new medications and will keep me updated on upcoming clinical trials.

I have always believed that the people we meet and work with are friends; some become so close that we consider them family. So, I wanted to share this with everyone so that if we talk, you’ll understand why I might sound like I’ve had one too many drinks. Sadly, I am not drinking anymore, but if you click on the links you can see me making my favorites: Lava Flows, Sangria and one of several different Kamikazes. Despite everything, I’m still driving in and out of the city daily, participating in fairs, researching, buying and selling art, unveiling new pieces, packing up sold works, and—most importantly—enjoying my entire family (who have been so kind and helpful). I also want to thank those who gave us ideas, leads, connections, prayers, etc. We will do everything we can to beat this!

On a side note, every time my adorable granddaughter, Teddy, smiles at me, she triggers that crazy laughter, and as I recently said to my son Lance, at least I will go out laughing!!!

I wish everyone a beautiful life and sincerely hope you never have to deal with something like this.