Two Examples of MS Strength

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“….beauty remains, even in misfortune. If you just look for it, you discover more and more happiness and regain your balance.”

~ Anne Frank

Some days I open my email and/or read my comments and I’m blown away. Today I’m having this sensation as I behold an email with the above quote from Herrad, my reference that I turn to again and again when I need to understand MS tenacity, steeliness, and absolute bravery. I haven’t been over to her blog Access Denied – Living with Multiple Sclerosis as of late ( I do have her blog and a small collection of other blogs in my Google Reader treasure trove.) I DO follow along silently and listen to her story: I sometimes feel that responsive words are not necessary. I suggest you take a look, as she is a fantastic and emotional storyteller.

The below comment I received on my About page (as often happens when people come across this site through search engines or just by accident.) I DO appreciate them and they make me realize that I’ve touched others, maybe in moments of sadness, joy, weakness, or strength. Thank YOU for making my day, Bruce, and I’m honored that YOU’RE bookmarking ME…. 🙂

Hey Jen,

I’m part of the minority (males) who was also diagnosed late in life. I’m currently 53 and was diagnosed just before Christmas in 2007.

I probably had MS for a much longer period but a serious rollover auto accident back in 2000 and the physical aftermath hid the real cause for a slowly developing limp and my mobility issues.

I’m lucky enough to still be working at the same job I have had for over 36 years but I am also worried about the future. I came out of the MS closet just before last Christmas to two upper management co-workers and shared my condition with two more this past week.

Kudos on your web-site! I have bookmarked it and look forward to visiting it regularly as a resource. As my condition changes I am starting to go back in the research mode to educate myself.

It’s obvious you are a glass half full lady and I believe that helps. My motto which I told my bosses when I shared my condition with them was… I still had a great head on my shoulders and I could still get across the room when needed… it was just going to take me a little longer in the future.

Regards,
Bruce


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2 comments

  • Sefardisafran
    September 27, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    I had my first attack on July 4th 1967 while watching the tall ships parade on the Hudson river.
    Went to my dr. and he neurologist, they dx me the “old way” in the steam room (I was almost passing out after 5 minutes) and the somatosensory tests, together with audio test proved I had MS. Was dormant for years awakening whenever I exceeded I had to PAY dearly for it! In 1990 became a daily problem and 1992 became Progressive MS, began using wheelchair at the mall etc, and was able to walk short distances with the canadian crutches until the falls began and I went to a wheelchair 7/24. I am happy I have good wheelchairs and they take me wherever I want to go.
    Sincerely,
    Sefardisafran

  • Jen
    September 27, 2009 at 11:14 pm

    Hi Sefardisafran–

    It’s amazing that MS got diagnosed at all before the use of MRIs. I’ve read about the steam room/hot tub tests to worsen symptoms (seems sometimes that the summers do just this sort of “quiz.”) I’m glad you’re doing well with your wheels and that you can talk with positivity and humor– I’m a big fan of both.

    I’ve also heard of the tall ships in the Hudson, and about a year ago my family and I did a little ferry ride to see the manmade waterfalls exhibit (one structure was built under the Brooklyn Bridge.) Cool!

    Thank you for reading and also commenting. It’s nice to hear from you!

    Sincerely,

    Jen 🙂

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