I tweeted this earlier today, but too moving not to post on KK.

Life does not end with a diagnosis of ALS. In a way, it’s like a new life has begun for me. And I don’t want to waste it.

This disease can do a lot of terrible things. But it won’t erase my memories, or the thought of my wife and kids smiling. I will never forget our trip to Traverse City the weekend after I was diagnosed. The pictures we have will never degrade. The irony of ALS is that while it destroys your body, your mind remains as sharp as ever. Those moments are moments I’ll never forget — this disease will not take that away from me.

I love my wife and kids so much. I love my family and friends so much. This disease may silence me, but it cannot silence all of us.

-Scott Matzka, former pro hockey player, also played at Michigan, Read more from Scott at The Players' Tribune.