I am Melody Ward

A year ago February 2022, my leg begin shaking when I was in a performance. As a retired professional dancer, I was collaborating on a concert with my husband.

I had an intuitive feeling that it would be my last.

I had transitioned 8 years ago to a second career in ministry, completing seminary in Boston and beginning anew.

I moved through the year with medical professionals thinking it was my back and a host of other things.

In March of 2023 they diagnosed me with “suspicion” of ALS.

I am currently being treated at the Cleveland Clinic.

My life has changed in ways I could not have imagined.

My symptoms currently are left side located.

I continue to work full time as a Chaplain & Director of Spiritual Care at an inpatient addiction recovery center.

Though everything in my life is changing, I have begun the process of living and leaning into this new slightly ‘funky’ story.

I am engaged with a group of dancers who are physically challenged. We meet monthly virtually.

I continue to share my story where I can and when it feels safe. Though I’m learning that the risk of being unsafe sometimes pushes me too.

It’s a journey and I have an amazing husband and 2 beautiful daughters!!

I just keep moving a little each day. That is all I have for now.