MS Journey

Today is a beautiful Monday, and with no school in session, I decided to surprise my kids with an unexpected adventure. I scheduled a test drive for the Cybertruck, and I couldn’t wait to see their reactions! I told them we were going to the zoo in Omaha, which was true, but the twist was the test drive before our animal-filled day. The drive to Omaha was about two hours long, but it felt like no time at all. My daughter and youngest son behaved wonderfully, eagerly anticipating our trip. Their excitement was contagious! It helped that they were both thrilled about going to the zoo, which made the drive feel shorter and more enjoyable. When we arrived at Tesla, I asked if we could do the test drive a little earlier since we were already there. To my delight, they agreed! Once inside the Cybertruck, my daughter started to get a little hungry. But as we explored the unique features of the car, her curiosity took over. They both hopped into the trunk and squealed with joy, cap...

Today was one of those days that reminded me of the beauty of life’s simple moments. I started the day with my therapy session, a routine that has become a vital part of my journey with MS. It’s always a mix of emotions, but today, I felt particularly hopeful. After my session, I had my daughter with me, who had taken a little hit from a football and was recovering at home. She brought her bright spirit along, armed with a warm cup of hot chocolate and her favorite YouTube videos to keep her entertained while I focused on my therapy. After my appointment, we picked up my son, who had his mind set on McDonald's for lunch. I admit, I wasn't too excited about the idea of fast food again. So, I decided to divert his attention with a little creativity. “How about a car wash instead?” I suggested. It was an unexpected detour, but one that brought a spark of excitement to the kids. As we entered the car wash, the little guy’s eyes lit up. He was thrilled to see the colorfu...

As I sit here in the pickup line, the sun shining down and the weekend almost within reach, I can't help but reflect on the little moments that make these days special. It’s Friday, and the anticipation of the weekend is in the air. My little guy is wrapping up another week at preschool, and I’m excited to hear all about his adventures. Lately, our post-preschool routine has included a pit stop at McDonald's. It seems like every time I pick him up, he eagerly requests a visit to his favorite fast-food spot. With Halloween just around the corner, it’s no surprise he’s been captivated by the idea of collecting those iconic McDonald's buckets. I get it—there’s something magical about the way he lights up at the thought of a fun meal and a chance to chat about his day. But as I sit here, I find myself hoping for a different request today. Don’t get me wrong, I love our McDonald's outings and the joy it brings him. Yet, there’s something about the thought of expl...

Being a mom is a beautiful journey, filled with countless joys and challenges. But when our children get sick, everything else seems to fade into the background, including our own limitations. Yesterday was one of those challenging yet rewarding days. It all started with a seemingly normal morning. My four-year-old son was excited and energetic, ready to take on the day. But as we prepared for school, I noticed he felt a bit warm. A quick check of his temperature revealed he had a fever of 100.3°F, which meant no school for him. While I focused on making him comfortable, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something else might be going on, especially with the nosebleed and congestion he had been experiencing. After giving him some fever medicine, I settled in for what I anticipated would be a busy day. My son is a social butterfly—always wanting to play and engage with others. Keeping him entertained while he wasn’t feeling well was no small task. He took his medicine like a ...

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can present unique challenges, but it doesn't have to keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. In fact, spending time outside offers numerous benefits that can enhance both physical and mental well-being, regardless of mobility limitations. With the help of assisted devices like canes or wheelchairs, you can still embrace nature and all its beauty. The Benefits of Outdoor Time for Those with MS 1. Physical Activity : Engaging in outdoor activities, even at a gentle pace, helps maintain mobility and strength. Whether it’s a stroll in the park with a cane or a wheelchair ride along a scenic path, movement is key to managing MS symptoms. 2. Mental Health Boost : Nature has a profound effect on our mental state. The sights and sounds of the outdoors can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common among those living with chronic conditions. Fresh air and sunshine contribute to a more positive mindset. 3. Social Connections :...

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold, I prepared myself for a rare evening outing with our dog, Coco. Typically, I save these walks for those days when I’m feeling particularly well, but this evening felt special. My toddler, full of enthusiasm, decided he wanted to join me on this little adventure. With a bright smile, he settled onto my lap in the wheelchair, eager to explore the neighborhood. I was thrilled by his excitement, and as we rolled down the path, I knew this would be a memorable experience. Our male German Shepherd, Coco, trotted alongside us, his tail wagging with delight, while my son took in the sights around him. Seeing the joy on his face was absolutely heartwarming. He nestled comfortably against me, embracing the freedom the wheelchair offered us both. I couldn’t help but smile as I watched him, his laughter ringing in the cool evening air. As we continued on our stroll, the peaceful ambiance of the evening enveloped u...

Today marks an important chapter in my life as I received my new wheelchair. While this moment should be filled with excitement and gratitude, it has brought forth a wave of emotions and psychological challenges that I didn’t fully anticipate. When I first learned that I would be getting a wheelchair, I felt a mix of emotions—relief, hope, and, honestly, a bit of dread. The idea of having a mobility aid is liberating; it represents newfound freedom and the ability to navigate the world more easily. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the limitations imposed by my condition. This duality has made the experience complex and deeply emotional. As I unwrapped my new wheelchair, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of vulnerability wash over me. The sleek design and bright color were inviting, and I appreciated the thought that had gone into its creation. Yet, as I sat in it for the first time, a wave of sadness washed over me. It felt as if I was acknowledging the loss of my previous...