Kentucky, USA
When were you diagnosed with MS? April 2012
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 think that I am a pretty boring MS patient. However, I am so happy to be here to share my story; because, I believe 100% that my purpose is to be a light to those who have Multiple Sclerosis or have been newly diagnosed.
Of course, I was scared when I was diagnosed in 2012, when numbness took over my whole body. As I look back, my first neurologist (who was wonderful by the way) said " I think you're going to be a mild case". I believe what he recognized was that I lived a healthy lifestyle. Although I now know, no one can predict what MS will bring, I hold on tight to those words and I appreciate his kindness. It was what my young self needed at the moment, when I thought I was doing everything right.
But, I know what triggered my MS flare...it was STRESS. I was working full-time as an eye technician, a mom of 2, and a Coast Guard member's spouse (who worked in the Gulf). We were having financial issues that were spiraling out of our control, and to add to that, we were living in that dang TX heat!
As of today, I have only ever had that one flare and recently some mild MRI changes. As a result, my doctors have taken me off of the painful injections and put me on a shorter less invasive treatment. So there's that..yay!! I believe that my overall well-being is enhanced by a combination of factors, including the support of my loving family and, most importantly, my faith in God. My hope is that I can inspire someone out there to know that MS can be uneventful, and that...All is not lost! I know there are many mild cases out there, but I promise to NEVER take that for granted. My wish is to pass along the hope that my doctor gave to me during the scariest time of my life, and I will. Thank you for reading this and allowing me to share. I look forward to knowing everyone's story and getting to know you all. For now, #KEEPMOVING, and God bless!!
#2: What MS symptoms do you have and how do you manage them on a daily basis?
I am very fortunate to have symptoms that I cannot entirely attribute to MS. Possibly the most recognizable symptom I have is fatigue.
#3: Who/What has been your most important support system?
My husband is my primary source of support, and even though my family is far away, they also play an essential role in my support system.
#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?
Im not perfect, but I stay positive and motivated by exercising, eating healthy, and avoiding alcohol. These things are key most days. I also take some amazing supplements too.
#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?
The best advice I can give is to know that each person's journey is so different. It's very possible that MS can be uneventful and stable...like mine. However, a great support system is also very important 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 haven't started a specific mission or business. But, as an eye care technician of 25 years, I have worked with doctors who are familiar with MS-related problems (like Optic neuritis) and they helped me find care. However, my diagnosis has led me onto a side path of helping people complement their entire well-being through affordable nontoxic products and supplements. It was a blessing that a friend showed me these things.
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