I never in my wildest nightmare imagined that I would be faced with a fatal
neurological disease. Thirteen months ago, my wife and I were hit with the
unbearable news of ALS. So many questions and feelings erupted all at
once. Our initial concern was our three daughters. How were we going to
tell them, how were they going to absorb this? We have two daughters in
elementary school and one in middle school. They were all aware of the
changes in my speech, not too noticeable, but knew we were seeing Dr.’s and
having tests done to find out why this was happening. Explaining to them,
not only what this horrible disease is, but telling them there is no cure,
was hands down the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.
We’ve all learned and grown so much in the past year and have come to a new
level of realization for everything we truly have to be thankful for. I’m
told my progression is in the slow range, which has luckily allowed me to
continue working. Speech is my biggest obstacle right now. It is
becoming more difficult to say everything on my mind. Eating is also a
challenge, instead of being the first done at a meal, I’m now last, but
this just gives us more time together at the dinner table. I am noticing my
hand strength is weakening, especially in my right hand. I’m not letting
any of this get in my way of our family weekly crazy routine. I’m still
the one getting all the laundry done and making the best peanut butter and
jelly sandwiches for the girls’ lunches. We’re always running around,
picking someone up and dropping another off.
We did finally get around to taking that cross country trip that we always put off. Driving to Florida, in my little Ford Fusion, and now that we did it, we realize why we put it off. We had a lot of fun no doubt, just a long, long ride in a tiny car.
My wife and I just finished the Las Vegas ½ marathon at the beginning of December. What an experience that was, running down the middle of the strip at night. I am taking in everything I can and then some!
We are so fortunate to have a large extended family and an incredible group
of loving friends that are always looking out for me, my wife and daughters. I have an awesome team of Dr.’s at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, along with the wonderful support of everyone at ALS in the Heartland.
We are doing what we can to help those that aren’t as fortunate as us in their fight with ALS. Our oldest daughter spoke on my behalf at an ALS Research benefit this past November in Kansas City, MO. It was very touching. I am very proud of my wife and daughters, their strength and perseverance are contagious and keep the hope alive!
Jeff Quinn is the strongest person I know. Jeff has never spent one second complaining of his situation and that is what sets Jeff apart. He still has his humor and laughing is (in my view) the best medicine. I want Jeff to know that Shirley and I will always be their for him and his family. So Jeff-keep fighting the good fight, there are people hear and above watching out for you and hell you are’nt going anywhere soon-so hang in there.
That’s really, really well-written. Nice job!
Sending Love and prayers for Jeff and his family. Enjoy ever moment. It is sad that we all seem to put off things until we get news like this. I would encourage a video letter to your girls. They will cherish that forever.
When Jeff told me of the disease I was floored. I am not sure how I woulld handle ALS, but I see how Jeff goes to about his life every day and it makes me proud to know him. His courage and stamina is amazing. Nothing has slowed him down and he is the same fun loving person I have always known. His loud booming laugh busts me up!!!
I got to see Jeff while I was on a business trip recently to Omaha. He is such a lovable guy — when he saw me he held out his hand for me to shake it, but I said, “Nope, I want to give you a hug!” I don’t get to see Jeff often, but he is always such a joy to be around when I do. He is fighting a tough fight and is an inspiration to all by reminding us to enjoy life to the fullest!
Glad to hear your continuing to enjoy yourself. Keeping you and your family in my prayers !
Here’s to slow progression and a happy and enjoyable 2012.!
Jeff and I work for the same company (Kraft Foods) and I have been in contact with him over e-mail for some time but about 12 months back I was able to connect with him in person. Jeff is a very personable individual with a huge heart not only for his family but also for his work family (Kraft). He will go out of his way to help others and thinks of others before himself. Keep up the hard work Jeff and I will be prayng for you!!!!
Wow Jeff, again you show people what an amazing man, husband and father you really are! You and Michele have done such an incredible job of bringing up 3 beautiful and strong young ladies – I know you’re so very proud of each of them. You’re a fighter Jeff, I have a feeling you’re going to to be fighting this fight for a long time and not allowing this disease to take over. Stay strong Jeff and remember you have a lot of love and support here in Kansas City.
Have a great 2012 and maybe next New Years Eve we can all get together for one big party!
Well done, Jeff! Great to see that you, Michele, and the girls are doing so many exciting things. Your positive attitude has always been contagious, and is a big part of why people flock to you. I have so many great memories from “back in the day”, and in just about every one of them, you are laughing hysterically. Wouldn’t trade those memories for anything (especially the trip to Notre Dame with Dave and Brockley). .
Keep it up, Jeff. You and your family are an inspiration to the rest of us. Be sure to let me know when the next ALS event is, and I’ll do my best to attend.
Your friend,
Chip
Wow Jeff, again you show people what an amazing man, husband and father you really are! You and Michele have done such an incredible job of bringing up 3 beautiful and strong young ladies – I know you’re so very proud of each of them. You’re a fighter Jeff, I have a feeling you’re going to to be fighting this fight for a long time and not allowing this disease to take over. Stay strong Jeff and remember you have a lot of love and support here in Kansas City.
Jeff, Jeff, Jeff! You continue to amaze me. WHAT A MAN!!!
When I look back, 20 some years ago, I just have to laugh and be extremely proud at the same time.
When Jeff and my son Brian were running together for a few years, all I could do was hold my breath everytime they went out. Micschievous??? Not even close to the right word.
I know there were some people out there who questioned whether Jeff and Brian would ever make anything out of themselves. I ALWAYS had faith because I knew both of them were fantastic human beings.
Well, look at both of them now. Both of them are fantastic family men, and have had great carreers. I guess the lesson here is, don’t give up on people. They have a tendancy to Surprise and Amaze you.
I’m just so damn proud of you Jeff!
Jeff! Who knew you were such a good writer?! You have me sitting here in amazement. I was just talking to my husband last night about how strong you are and how you’re able to take this tragedy and not let it get you down. You are an amazing man and I am truly grateful to know you.
Jeff, I am so proud to know you. You have shown us all that good truly can come from bad. Keep fighting the good fight, and know that we are all praying for you and your family daily. Looking forward to seeing you again real soon! Happy New Year!!
cool story bro.
Jeff, I will only say what a great Christian leader you are to all of us and we are blessed to have you in our lives. What a beautiful wife and family you have! You encourage us all to walk the straight and narrow so someday we can be a tenth of the Christian example you are. God bless and keep each of you in the palm of his hand.
What a touching and inspirational story you relate. I’m continually amazed at the strength, you, Michele and the girls demonstrate throughout such a tough journey. I love the little stories I hear in the aisle here at work with Michele. With all the crazy kid stories told, one would hardly know that you are all dealing with such a serious issue. God keep you all in His loving care. Peace!
Rockstar.
TTNJQ gives me hope for the rest of the world. Keep Fighting!
Jeff the article brought me to tears. You are no doubt, the bravest strongest person that I know. You have a beautiful way with words. Your spirit will keep you going. I am proud to be in your extended family Jeff. Know that I pray for you, and your family everyday.
God is watching over you. I know because i asked him to. I pray for you and your family everday.
Jeffrey, You are without a doubt, the MAN. What a beautifully written piece about you thoughts and feelings. I was like everone, totally shocked when I heard the news of your diagnosis. I couldn’t believe it. It has been over a year now since you got the news and every time I am around you I can’t imagine how you keep yourself so upbeat. I am so proud of you. I hear that from everyone that I talk to. You are a pillar of strength and I am so glad that you have such a great attitude in the face of this adversity. Keep up the good fight, miracles do happen and you do have a hugh group of family and friends that are pulling for you, Michele and the girls. You are in our thioughts and prayers.
PS When ever we are out to eat, I bet you finish before me!
Love Ya Man,
Your old Uncle, Steve
Jeff:
I have been thinking of you, your wife and your three girls constantly! This is a beautiful piece. I am not at all surprised by your strong, fighting spirit (but was surprised to read you do the laundry!!!). We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and would love to see you in KC or Omaha! I send all my love, Kelly
Jeff, stay strong and be open minded.
You can heal yourself and your life.
God bless you, brother Jeff.
You and your family are in my prayers every day.
Your Irish heart is second to none.
Cheers pal,
Patrick