**Single Mother Living with ALS Finds Strength in Her Children and Community**
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At just 23, Brianna Salgado had high hopes for her future, anticipating the arrival of her second child and embracing an active lifestyle in her Miami hometown. However, shortly before her 24th birthday, everything changed when she began experiencing unusual symptoms that would later lead to a devastating diagnosis: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
The first signal that something was amiss came when Salgado noticed a persistent tingling in her arm. At the time, she attributed it to common motherhood experiences, reasoning that perhaps her firstborn son, Brandon, had simply been sleeping awkwardly on her arm. However, after her second pregnancy, when she encountered difficulties with basic tasks like walking, she decided it was time to seek medical advice.
“After giving birth to my daughter, Bria, I knew I needed to see a doctor,” Salgado recounted. Following a battery of tests, the chilling diagnosis was confirmed: she had ALS. Her mind immediately raced back to viral challenges like the Ice Bucket Challenge, which had raised awareness about the disease.
Salgado’s life took a dramatic turn as she began facing mobility issues just months after her diagnosis. “I went from having balance problems to needing a wheelchair within a few months,” she explained. The challenges intensified when her ex-husband was unable to provide the support she needed. Taking control of her own treatment became paramount, and she made the difficult decision to separate from her spouse.
Now aged 30, Salgado lives with her two children and her parents. Throughout the past few years, she has experienced a gradual decline in mobility and speech. However, she draws immense strength from her children, aged 6 and 8. “My kids are what keep me from giving up,” she stated firmly. “Without them, I can’t imagine how I would cope with this illness.”
Salgado feels a deep commitment to her children, striving to create lasting memories even in the face of overwhelming odds. “Living on a fixed income while trying to cherish moments with my kids is challenging,” she admitted. Though she has revealed her diagnosis to them, she has opted not to disclose the terminal nature of the illness yet. Instead, she focuses on fostering their emotional growth, believing her experience with ALS has instilled empathy in her children.
Her daughter, Bria, has proven to be fiercely supportive. “Even at a young age, she would lay on the floor with me if I fell down, just to keep me company until I could get up again,” Salgado shared. Despite her limitations, she has found ways to stay engaged with her children’s activities. Whether helping with homework, teaching them to play games like UNO, or joining them while they ride bikes in her wheelchair, she remains actively involved in their lives.
Apart from her immediate family, Salgado seeks support from close relatives and friends. Her extended family plays a crucial role, especially during school events and activities. “My cousin is very supportive; he’s always there at their football games and other events,” she noted.
In addition to her family support, Salgado found a community through the non-profit Her ALS Story, which is dedicated to women diagnosed with ALS before age 35. Since connecting with the group over a year ago, Salgado has found it to be a source of comfort and understanding. “Everyone understands what you’re going through; the atmosphere has been incredibly welcoming,” she said.
Every year, members of the group gather for a retreat where they can bond over shared experiences. Salgado recently attended her second retreat, which took place in Cape Cod. Among the highlights of the event was the opportunity to access the ocean using specially-designed beach wheelchairs. “It was the first time I had ever been in the ocean in my wheelchair, and it was amazing,” she recalled fondly.
Despite the ongoing struggles associated with ALS, Salgado remains optimistic and participates in the retreats annually. Connecting daily with fellow members of Her ALS Story fosters a sense of belonging, providing her a space to be herself, without the defining limits of her medical condition.
As she navigates life with ALS, Salgado’s determination shines through. Her children are her motivation, her community is her support, and through shared experiences, she continues to forge a path ahead with hope and resilience.