I know it’s silly to wordplay with my name as I share my personal journey with ALS. Some, I’m sure, don’t appreciate it, but it is who I am. By doing so, you are made aware that I don’t take myself too seriously, although what I share can, at times, be very serious and painful. Juan-der no more, this is just who I am.

As Meg and I committed ourselves to traveling in the RV, it was not a whimsical decision. We thought long and hard. Considered the pros and cons, deliberated the logistics and potential challenges. We had always wanted to do this when retired. We decided that ALS was not going to stop us from living how we want to.

As many in the ALS community quickly realize, our connections are strong. Strong because no one truly understands the devastating impact of ALS unless you are directly affected. As such, meeting others with this terrible disease is exponentially more special. This is due to the isolation ALS inherently creates for every person. I challenge you to identify any person with ALS who has not experienced a degree of isolation.

Yes, Meg and I are ticking off the bucket list. However, we never expected the deep impact of meeting others on our travels.

The unexpected connections, the anticipation of meeting someone for the first time. Our common denominator is a fatal disease. We are dying, yet this stranger is willing to carve out a slice of their precious day to meet us. This is a gift for us, truly. And oh, the “person” that these individuals “are”, not were. To include their dedicated families and caregivers. OMG, just OMG!

Meg and I are keenly aware of the fact that we may be meeting some for the first and last time. So this is why I record, photograph, and write about our encounters. Not just to chronicle but to share and hopefully inspire others to live life at full throttle.

Meg and I will continue to travel in Big Blue as long as it is safe for both of us. We are also serious about offering friends to join us on the road.

Keep an eye out for our next trip. This “Joy” ride is just getting started!

TJO