Upon being formally diagnosed with MS in the summer of 2006, I immediately began interferon treatment. For approximately two years after being diagnosed, there were no visible symptoms. Then in fall 2008 I began to limp. As time went on, my gait became impacted & has since gotten slowly but progressively worse. I currently suffer from secondary progressive MS. Presently, I am fully ambulatory but do utilize a cane. In addition to my gait issues, my balance is off and I do get fatigued often.
I am determined not to let MS get the best of me. After falling victim in 2007 to a Reduction in Workforce (RIF) associated with the collapse of the secondary mortgage market on Wall Street, I teamed up with two partners & formed an advisory / consulting business. Today, my business continues to thrive & do well.
My determination to deal with my MS & be ready for the cure is founded in four main principals. These are:
- Remain Engaged in the Marketplace / Workforce. Remaining engaged in the workforce keeps me abreast of current marketplace events, allows me to maintain relationships, network with others & provides me with a sense of accomplishment necessary for overall well-being.
- Remain Physically and Socially Active. I find exercise to be critical in that it keeps me active. Admittedly, some days are more difficult than others, but I push myself to get out of the house & exercise. Additionally, meeting with & talking to others on a regular basis keeps me engaged and socially relevant.
- Remain Positive. Dwelling on the negative takes too much energy & only drives one to become depressed. While I am often times frustrated, I remain optimistic about the future & remain confident that a cure is forthcoming.
- Remain Knowledgeable. Having knowledge is having power; with respect to MS, this is essential. Today, progress towards a cure is being made at a rapid pace. It is critical to always ask questions, stay informed and do your homework.
When, not if a cure is identified, I plan to be ready to take full advantage of all those little things that life has to offer.
MS ... Today it stands for Multiple Sclerosis. Let's hope tomorrow it stands for Mystery Solved.
