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The silhouette of a woman kneeling in a pretty pose holds up a heart toward herself. Her hair blows in the wind.

Embracing My New MS Body

Moyna John's avatar image

By Moyna John

2 min read

I have HATED my body for the majority of my life - from head to toe. I hated it all, and I struggled with my developing body. All the curves were not something that I wanted. All my friends were petite, and here I come looking like an Amazonian. During my mid-twenties, I started to like my body. Being curvy was in, and I felt more confident. All was well, and then I had Micah. After that, I was diagnosed with MS.

Struggling with body image

I was not prepared for my new mommy body. I never had a hanging stomach, also known as a 'fupa'. Certain parts of my body became more prominent in size, like my arms and chest. I fell back into my body hate all over again. But my MS somewhat stabilizing has improved my outlook on my body. I fought to retain full use of my body. No matter what it looks like, I want to embrace myself completely.

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Living life to the fullest

Also, social media has been promoting a 'hot girl summer'. Women are ready for the streets since we have been locked indoors for over a year. Most people have gained weight during the pandemic, and we are showing our bodies without shame. This new movement has given me a boost not to be ashamed or embarrassed. 2020 was one of the most brutal years of my life. My diagnosis and difficult symptoms made life almost impossible. I made a vow to try my best to live life to the fullest in the future. My future with MS is uncertain; I can't afford to waste time hating myself.

Tips for embracing your MS body

So how am I combating my new MS body, you ask? I am stepping out of my comfort zone. I am buying clothes I was too afraid to wear out of fear. Though I still struggle with feeling insecure, I feel very invigorated. For example, wearing a two-piece bathing suit on vacation. I put it on and wanted to run and hide. All I could focus on was my cellulite. But I shook it off and I had fun with my friends. By no means am I saying it's easy! I doubt EVERY SINGLE OUTFIT I put on. I am trying my best to be my best self.

I wanted to share this experience with everyone for multiple reasons.

  • You are not alone in your insecurities. I know it is hard, and plus-size bodies sometimes are not viewed as beautiful. I'm here to tell you that your body IS BEAUTIFUL!
  • This is our year, regardless of what anyone else has to say. 2020 was a challenging year for everyone. It is the time to live your life the best way you can.
  • BUY THAT OUTFIT, AND WEAR IT! I promise you that you will love it. I know it seems scary and you are unsure. GET IT ANYWAY!
This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The MultipleSclerosis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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