Meet - Molly Kruko

Singapore, Singapore

When were you diagnosed with MS? October 2019

What type of MS do you have? Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS)

#1: Can you tell us a little about your journey with MS. How did you feel about your initial diagnosis and how it has affected your life?

Since my dad was diagnosed with MS in 1996, the news of my own MS diagnosis didn't come as a shock to me. Although it was still difficult to hear, it wasn't my first major diagnosis of a chronic illness. Back in 2003, I was diagnosed with a rare eye disease, and during most of my twenties, I lived in fear of going blind. This experience, along with the medical trauma I endured, equipped me to handle the news of my MS diagnosis.

So therefore, I jumped right into getting a care team and developing a treatment plan as soon as possible. Fortunately, I was able to get a diagnosis and begin treatment, within two months of my first symptoms. However, I couldn't shake the fear that this would hold my husband back from finding a job, as we were just starting to navigate the post-graduate school phase of our lives. It was challenging to incorporate this new aspect into our lives, but I remained optimistic and determined to find a way to manage my MS while continuing to pursue our goals.

#2: What MS symptoms do you have and how do you manage them on a daily basis?

The majority of my symptoms are sensory-based, which include persistent numbness and tingling sensations in my hands, legs, and feet. Additionally, I experience a considerable amount of fatigue.

To manage these symptoms, I rely on a combination of diet and exercise. Regular exercise has been helpful in reducing my fatigue levels while maintaining a healthy diet has improved my quality of sleep. Moreover, when my numbness and tingling sensations become unbearable, I find wearing compression gear, especially gloves, and arm sleeves, to be effective in alleviating the discomfort.

#3: Who/What has been your most important support system?

My most important support system has been my MS community on Instagram.

#4: Do you use any accessories like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to manage daily activities?

I don't use mobility aids. But, I do wear compression gear to help deal with the numbness and tingling.

#5: How do you stay positive and motivated in your daily life? What do you do for self-care?

I stay positive by finding a balance between staying active and getting adequate rest.

#6: Your story and experiences with MS are incredibly valuable and can provide encouragement and motivation to others in the community. What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with MS or going through a challenging time right now?

Avoid using search engines. The results usually lead to unnecessary anxiety by presenting worst-case scenarios. However, if you do choose to search for information, try to be specific and look up things like treatments or procedures to gain a better understanding of how they work.

Next, find others who have MS. Instagram is a great place to make connections. Many MS societies list local support groups that can help. As well as, your doctor's office might also have a support group too.

#7: Have you started a business or mission related to MS? Can you tell us about it and what inspired you to take this step?

I live in Singapore and Singapore doesn't have an official MS Society, so I am working with some fellow MS warriors here in Singapore to create an official MS Society here.

The MS warriors in Singapore are a great source of inspiration for me. But I am motivated when people approach me with questions about what it is like living with MS in Singapore. Prior to relocating, I faced challenges in obtaining information about MS in Singapore. Thus, I do my best to assist those who seek my guidance. However, it's imperative to establish an official MS Society in Singapore to provide comprehensive support to the MS community.

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Meet - Kimberly Klemstine

Florida, USA

When were you diagnosed with MS? September 2020

What type of MS do you have? Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS)

#1: Can you tell us a little about your journey with MS. How did you feel about your initial diagnosis and how it has affected your life?

I received my official diagnosis in September 2020, just two months before my wedding. At that time, I was frightened and anxious that my fiancé would leave me. However, I consider myself fortunate to have married a man who is always there for me, supports me, and understands the difficulties, I go through.

My life has certainly changed for the better! Having MS has taught me to prioritize self-care and not to sweat the small things in life. Although I'm not perfect, I have become more conscious of what I eat, and I am more committed to exercising and taking better care of myself overall.

#2: What MS symptoms do you have and how do you manage them on a daily basis?

My main symptoms are fatigue, heat sensitivity, brain fog, and occasional numbness. I manage my fatigue and brain fog by eating small well-balanced meals throughout the day, working out, and ensuring I do the more difficult tasks earlier in the day. I manage heat sensitivity by carrying a portable fan and I use cooling packs. My favorite cooling packs are ReLeaf Packs. I also wear light weight clothing during the warmer months too.

#3: Who/What has been your most important support system?

I draw strength from my faith and my relationship with Jesus. My family is my driving force. They constantly motivate me to keep fighting, maintain good health, and find joy and laughter in life. I am fortunate to have an exceptional healthcare team, led by Dr. Kalina Sanders and her nurse practitioner Megan Weigel, who are associated with Baptist Beaches Neurology. Their exceptional talents, intelligence, optimism, and passion for the MS community make them outstanding caregivers who always take the time to listen to my concerns.

#4: Do you use any accessories like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to manage daily activities?

No.

#5: How do you stay positive and motivated in your daily life? What do you do for self-care?

To stay positive, I surround myself with positive people, I laugh throughout the day, and I do the things that bring me joy.

As for selfcare...I work out, I cook more at home, I take time to go for massages and I get my nails done.

#6: Your story and experiences with MS are incredibly valuable and can provide encouragement and motivation to others in the community. What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with MS or going through a challenging time right now?

Oh gosh, where do I began! My words of advice would be to:

1. Have faith and laugh;

2. Give yourself grace. It's okay to say no to attending events;

3. It's okay to cry and be angry. Allow yourself to grieve;

4. Do something that makes you feel good about yourself and brings you joy; and

5. Practice selfcare.

#7: Have you started a business or mission related to MS? Can you tell us about it and what inspired you to take this step?

I started my Instagram page @thesouthernpeachmagnolia to connect with other MS Warriors and to let other people know that you thrive and have a great life while living with MS.

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Meet - Danielle Payne

Alabama, USA

When were you diagnosed with MS? November 2005

What type of MS do you have? Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS)

#1: Can you tell us a little about your journey with MS. How did you feel about your initial diagnosis and how it has affected your life?

MS has shown me the meaning of the phrase “Ignorance is Bliss”. Before I was diagnosed with MS, I didn't know what it was, so I wasn't afraid. I asked my doctor “Is MS fatal and she replied ‘You can live a normal lifespan’. I took that & ran with it! I learned as much as possible and I continue to learn, because learning is on-going. I went into adulthood with a medical prognosis that can be perceived as dismal. I was fortunate to take a Mindfulness course as an elective and I still practice it today. This knowledge has given me the power of understanding. I have learned to observe my well-being and even create a peace of mind.

#2: What MS symptoms do you have and how do you manage them on a daily basis?

I have been facing some health challenges such as brain fog, weakness in my legs, and neuropathy in my left arm and leg. To address these issues, I have been using some supplements and focusing on my diet. Additionally, I have been doing exercises like yoga to strengthen my legs, taking cold showers, and using CBD to manage my neuropathy.

#3: Who/What has been your most important support system?

My most important support system has been my family, fiancé, and friends.

#4: Do you use any accessories like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to manage daily activities?

Yes...I use a Rollator or Scooter to help manage my daily activities.

#5: How do you stay positive and motivated in your daily life? What do you do for self-care?

To maintain a positive outlook on life, I find humor in everyday things like books, media, and conversations. I also practice meditation, prayer, and study scripture to stay grounded. In terms of self-care, I listen to music and visit my favorite nature preserve or other outdoor spaces nearby. I also make time to visit the salon for my hair care needs.

#6: Your story and experiences with MS are incredibly valuable and can provide encouragement and motivation to others in the community. What words of advice or encouragement would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with MS or going through a challenging time right now?

For old and new Warriors, just know that there is a worldwide community of caring and knowledgeable professionals and volunteers who are ready to offer you help and support. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for help, whether it's for information, physical assistance, or anything else you may need. Remember, you are not alone and there are people who genuinely care.

#7: Have you started a business or mission related to MS? Can you tell us about it and what inspired you to take this step?

No. Although I don't have a specific mission or business, I make it a point to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis.

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Leave a comment, and share your experience. We would love to hear from you!