Living with MS

The days before and after being diagnosed with MS are a tumultuous, emotional time. Telling loved ones is difficult, and they may react in many different ways. It’s hard to...

Each year, we set aside the month of February to honor and revere the grand attributes, various contributions to society, and the wondrous marks of strength, diligence, courage and/or martyrdom...

Two of the many symptoms MS patients can experience are bladder urgency and pain. The feeling that you have to go again right after peeing. Constant pain down in the...

Some of the most devastating symptoms I face because of multiple sclerosis involve my cognitive ability. Like many with MS, cognitive dysfunction has had a major impact on my life...

How many of you struggled with disclosing your diagnosis? Family, friends, coworkers, and other associates were all on the list for people with whom we could share the news. There...

For the most part, I tend to think my life with multiple sclerosis has gone well. Rather, it’s gone as well as it could, I guess. I’ve adapted, and despite...

After a long, fatigue-filled Friday, I opened my eyes early Saturday morning well-rested and hungry. To my surprise, I smelled breakfast cooking. I’m sure it’s scrambled eggs. I like my...

Many people with MS suffer a hit to their self-image after diagnosis due to feelings of loss or feeling betrayed by their bodies. Some treatments can cause side effects like...

I have written quite a bit about my multiple sclerosis symptoms. I have mentioned tinnitus, spasticity, gastrointestinal problems, muscle weakness, and muscle spasticity. I have shared far more about myself...

When it comes to my life with multiple sclerosis, one thing has become very clear: In order to thrive in my day to day life, I need to have my...

“You never know what kind of monster is hiding behind a friendly smile.” This quote was found in a book I recently read. I am a sucker for books that...

Dating with MS can be difficult by itself. But even when a person with MS finds someone who they connect with who also accepts their MS, the challenges don’t end...

From my very first exacerbation (that I know of) to just a couple days ago, falling has been a pretty consistent problem for me. While I’ve discussed the causes of...

Three simple words: good for you. These words are special to me because they do not ring with judgment but only encouragement. These words also make me feel more relaxed...

Those who are familiar with MS and heat sensitivity might assume that cold weather is better for people with MS. For some, cooler temperatures does bring welcome relief – unless...

A couple of weeks ago, I was scheduled for my yearly MRI. The standard "make sure everything is stable and that my medication is still working" type that most people...

Have you ever heard someone use the metaphor “opening Pandora’s box?” It is often used to refer to big trouble that can arise from something small. I am not a...

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays." But, with due respect, Mr. Emerson didn't have...

Many people in the MS community talk about wearing a “mask” that hides how they are really feeling. On days when fatigue and pain plague them, they still go through...

Folks, if your medical care has gone anything like mine, you have probably met at least one doctor that you wanted to throttle right there in the examining room. Take...