Us, on our honeymoon, June 2000
People don’t know
By looking at you
You have ALS
They don’t see
The mental stress
Of wasted muscles
Not being able to
Move
Eat
Talk
Breathe
All of which you have
Because you bravely chose
To take on this horrible beast
With me
They don’t know
That nearly 3 years
To the date
We were married
We were diagnosed
And that was
13 years ago
They can’t possibly understand
Your justified
Anger and frustration
At the unfairness
Of life
Which you feel
So strong
Because you have
The most beautiful
And generous
Soul
I say
I love you
But that is not enough
Months ago
I was in the hospital
Dying
I said
I release you
And instead
Of running away
You said
Not yet
And you helped
Save me
Incredible
Today is your 50th birthday
There is no gift
I can give you
That can ever match
The sacrifice
You have made for me
I don’t even want to call it
Your birthday
I want to call it
Thank Fucking God
You Were Born Day
So Happy TFGYWBD, Crab Leg
Together
Let’s shake our fist
At the cruel
Universe
And laugh
Scott Lew's ALS Poetry Blog 
You all are incredible. What a beautiful poem.
I’m so touched by it. Much love to both of you always and forever. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Your words are captivating in so many ways. We miss you both. Love Gary and Debbie and the kids.
Happy 50th Birthday, Annabel! You looked amazing at Josh’s wedding. You’re a very lucky man, Scott.
What a beautiful ode and labor of love, one lip twitch at a time. Thank you for sharing your reflections. They always stunning and evocative.
Happy 50th Birthday Ann !
God bless you and your beautiful family .
So touching and beautifully written. Have a wonderful birthday with the family. Much love to you guys
Such a powerful poem. Have a wonderful birthday with the family.
Scott
Amen brother.
Raise a glass to Ann.
To her amazing compassion and strength.
Wishing her time to enjoy today and everyday.
Love,
Dan
Brought tears to my eyes. Say Hi to Ann for me!
Love,
Fred
I thought about this Scott, and as much as you say she is a gift to you, which she definitely IS, above ALL other gifts, I am sure you are also a gift to her. How so? Just the fact that you breathe, your beautiful shared memories, your sense of humor, your absolute will to live, the fact that you gave her your precious children, the list goes on and on. I don’t know you Ann, but Happy Birthday:) God Bless you both, and your family and friends:)
Happy belated TFGYWBD to Ann. She is amazing. You are both amazing. I hope we have a chance to catch up with her soon.
I just read this. Happy belated birthday to your awesome and amazing wife. You are both brave and inspiring, beautiful souls.
Happy belated birthday, Ann. Scott, we miss you both and hope we can see you and the kiddos soon. Our boys are almost 6 now, crazy…
Much love
Suzann and van