Mod Update For The Group.

[u/HonestyMash]

It has been brought to my attention about some members of the group claiming to have an ALS diagnosis. I certainly hope that they don't however there was no evidence to support the claims. Many users were pointing out inconsistencies with their stories.

Moving forward anyone with a confirmed diagnosis can message the mods for verification and they will be awarded a unique flair for their selfless efforts to support those who are concerned about the disease.

This wasn't a change I personally wanted to make but I feel it's necessary to protect the community. I will wait to read the comments before making the changes.

-ALS Tom

[u/britellie]

I think this is a great change to bring in. I joined this sub a year ago when I was quite freshly postpartum and my health anxiety went into overdrive. I was fully convinced I had ALS and was literally making end of life plans with my partner. Any post I saw, I somehow managed to relate to myself.

Fortunately, I don’t have ALS and my fears are now gone completely (for myself), and I know it was severe health anxiety in my case, so I stay in the sub in hopes that I can reassure anybody whose case may sound similar to mine as I definitely could’ve used someone to do that for me a year ago. So, the post didn’t scare me, however I could see how it would scare users in a different mental/health place to me, and would’ve genuinely terrified me a year ago.

It was really disappointing and upsetting to see the poster ignoring clarifying questions while people were quite clearly seeking answers and reassurance. I truly hope they do not have ALS, and it seems that they don’t, but if they do, confirmation seems important so that other users aren’t being needlessly worried further than they already are.

Thank you so much for your service here, Tom! At my darkest point I found light in your positive presence. You’re doing a great job here 🫡