![](https://www.iamals.org/wp-content/uploads/ninja-forms/6/Kelli_Johnsen.JPG 1477w, https://www.iamals.org/wp-content/uploads/ninja-forms/6/Kelli_Johnsen-1299x1500.jpg 1299w, https://www.iamals.org/wp-content/uploads/ninja-forms/6/Kelli_Johnsen-866x1000.jpg 866w, https://www.iamals.org/wp-content/uploads/ninja-forms/6/Kelli_Johnsen-433x500.jpg 433w)
I am Kelli Johnsen
living with ALS
Kansas
I'm very fortunate to be progressing slowly, and I get a lot of benefit from physical therapy.
I was diagnosed with ALS in 2008. My first symptom was arm weakness, followed soon by changes in my voice. I was 38 years old, and a Veterinary Technician with a specialty in Emergency and Critical Care. I could easily lift an 80 pound dog. Within a month I could only lift 40 pounds. I’m very fortunate to be progressing slowly, and I get a lot of benefit from physical therapy.