This tumultuous year was rough, so I took a well-deserved writing break. Everything felt out of control, and I needed some time to focus on my mental wellness. I'm ready to move on and write with renewed clarity and confidence.

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I turned 65 in 2024, and it hit me harder than I thought. It reminded me that now is the time to start working on my dreams. I acknowledge that there’s more life behind me than ahead, and if I'm fortunate enough to live to a ripe old age, I’ll have plenty of time to break more glass ceilings and strive for greater heights as both an advocate and a human being. If not now, when?

Society holds varying views on aging, and I am committed to changing these perspectives in any way I can. It's unreasonable to suggest that we, particularly women, are no longer relevant as we age. That’s why I applaud all the influencers over 60 who promote pro-aging messages. We must embrace our identities at every age and recognize that we still matter and contribute significant value to the world.

(Check out my friend Sandra Sallin who is an 84-year-old rock star influencer promoting pro-aging in fun and fascinating ways!) 

Dealing with age, multiple sclerosis (MS), and other health issues makes it challenging for me to be as productive as I once was. Some days, I struggle to get out of bed, while others, cognitive fog prevents me from accomplishing everything I want. It's frustrating, but I'm doing my best to accept the unpredictability of secondary progressive MS.

In 2024, I learned a powerful lesson: internalizing emotional baggage takes a toll on the body and mind. As Marianne Williamson said, "The deepest wounds are often invisible." To remove the baggage, I've journaled, spoken to a therapist, and worked on living in the moment and not in the past or future. Are you doing anything to battle emotional baggage? I'd love to hear about it!

My New Year's wish is to incorporate the lessons I've learned this year to help me become more assertive and wiser. Adversity teaches us that we grow from what we endure.

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”  - Helen Keller

Here are a few things we should focus on in the coming year. I hope you agree:

Love - To be surrounded by people who love us, whether sick or well, and understand that looking good doesn't necessarily mean we're feeling well. You can't see invisible illness.

Friendship - It's a blessing to have true friends. I hope none of mine grow tired of my need to cancel plans. I've missed many opportunities to socialize and attend important professional events because of illness. I'm hoping that by practicing self-care techniques, I can minimize the need to cancel plans in the future. Life is too short to miss out on anything!

Wellness - This term is often overused, but it accurately reflects my goal.  I want to feel well again. I want to have days where I don't even think about illness. Do you experience this hope, too?

The isolation that comes with a disability is absolute and significantly affects mental wellness. Being sick can create feelings of sadness, being left behind, and loneliness and that is NOT fun at all.

My self-care plan to combat negative emotions includes meditation, chair yoga, acupuncture, painting, knitting, spending time outdoors, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature. I hope this plan will help me manage my negative emotions. What are your plans for the new year?

Kindness, Compassion, and Forgiveness - I try to maintain kindness and compassion when someone does not support me. I strive to forgive those who have been unkind or uncaring. I've learned that forgiveness does not always need to be expressed verbally. Forgiveness can help release pent-up anger and anxiety, which is very beneficial for your health. The only path to inner peace is through forgiving both others and yourself.

"Forget what hurt you but never forget what it taught you."~Sharon Adler

Move forward -Letting go of past hurts is essential for moving forward. There's also grief. The loss of a loved one, a pet, or a broken relationship can be excruciating, making us question whether we will ever be able to heal. It's important to understand that the grieving process is unique to each individual and can take as long as needed. While it's true that things will never be the same, eventually, we must push ahead to thrive. Ultimately, we aim to survive and find a way to live fully again. Learn to let go of what no longer serves you well.

Gratitude - I'm deeply grateful for the unconditional love and support of friends and family. I appreciate every reader of An Empowered Spirit and hope that the experiences and information I share on the blog inspire you to reflect on your own life and motivate you to be your best, fabulous self. Let's readjust our crowns, eh?

Thank you for being a wonderful part of my life and accompanying me on my crazy journey. I wish you a joyful, healthy, and prosperous 2025! Wishing peace and good health to everyone.

The post As This Tumultuous Year Ends I Have a Few Things to Say appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

I received some challenging news from my neurologist, but I wasn't surprised. I've lived with Multiple Sclerosis for almost four decades, so I learned to expect the unexpected. Interestingly, after the doctor's appointment, a quote started to repeat in my head:

"God only gives us what we can handle." 

Given historical and recent events, I'm not convinced that no one faces more than they can handle. For now, I'll focus on the following mantra instead:

I envy people who seem to have smoother lives and don't have to worry about physical limitations, accessibility, or health issues that hinder simple pleasures. It's quite a blessing.

But millions of people face the challenges of illness and adversity in one way or another. Our special needs can create anxiety and sadness because life can be tough and frustrating. This isn't the life we imagined.

I searched for a quote that might give us some solace. The Buddha never disappoints:

"Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn’t learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn’t die; so, let us all be thankful." ~Buddha  

I guess it's time to tell you what I learned at my recent appointment with my neurologist, the catalyst for this post.

In recent years, I've been experiencing more MS symptoms. I frequently lose my balance while walking, and my right leg feels numb, weak, and heavy. I struggle with embarrassing bladder issues, and walking has become more challenging.

This has been a major concern as someone who loves spending time in nature.

I had no new lesions on my last MRI (pretty much the goal with MS), but I also had no remission (or return to normal) of the symptoms I was experiencing. In other words, new symptoms don't disappear; they're here to stay.

After 38 years of living with relapsing-remitting MS (the most common type of MS), I now have what's called secondary progressive MS.

I was almost expecting this news.

I'll never allow a few words established by the medical community to define me.

A new "type" of MS won't change who I am. It's a label, a few words strung together to categorize our disease. As a friend recently said, "We're not beat yet!" You betcha.

Let's face it: not every day is our best. Sometimes, we feel sad or discouraged. There are days when we struggle to get out of bed, get angry at our MS, or reluctantly cancel plans because we can't keep up with the pace of others.

This is normal and human; it's impossible to maintain a positive or resilient attitude every single day.

I learned that instead of quashing negative emotions, we have to experience them fully. That's what "experts" say. (Listen to Melli O'Brien talk about regulating negative emotions. I subscribe to her newsletter and find her wisdom comforting.)

Negative emotions are inevitable; we must confront them if we want to return to the light.

How I focus on the positive while living with the unpredictability of MS

It's crucial to learn how to navigate life's challenges effectively. There are numerous ways to achieve this. Here's my approach. What do you do?

1. Do what you love.  Some ideas include playing a sport, spending more time with your children, joining a gym, writing or knitting, or picking up a new hobby or one you've put aside.  Refocusing your attention can revitalize and refresh your mind, body, and spirit.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Replacing negative thoughts with positive ones is invaluable.  "Cognitive-behavioral therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things, like people, situations, and events.  The benefit of this fact is that we can change the way we think to feel / act better even if the situation does not change." ~National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists  
3. Count Your Blessings. It's important to recognize and appreciate the good things in your life. These can include your loved ones, your achievements at work, and other positive aspects. Take the time to focus on these blessings and express your gratitude to those who have been a part of them. You may be surprised at how much joy they bring you!
4. Take time for yourself. Take a bubble bath and light some candles for a relaxing staycation.  Get a hot stone massage.  Take a walk in the park to surround yourself with the beauty of nature.  Watch an old movie that makes you laugh.  Do something that feels good and rejuvenates you.  You deserve it.
5. Set daily goals for yourself. Use the ease of a program like Google Calendar to schedule personal tasks that make you happy. These personal goals will help you feel good and are important for your well-being.
6. Don't let a bad day get you down. Remind yourself of your successes and those who love and support you unconditionally. Life is filled with ups and downs. How you handle them is what's important. You're a badass! You're a survivor! You—and we—can do this! We can do hard things together.
7. Check my MS RESOURCES page for more information about MS and possible programs that may interest you.

The miracle of everyday blessings

My wise cousin once said that any test we face is a sign that something wonderful is about to happen.

Her advice aligns with the quote that's been on my mind. The strength we need to endure lies within us. We must believe in the miracle of everyday blessings because we've been given the power to change how we think and feel in any situation. We can do this, I promise you.

I've learned to live within my abilities and adapt as best as possible. I don't want to dwell on the past; I want to live for today, right now in this moment. I'm grateful that I can continue to have that choice!

How do you stay positive when life becomes challenging? Will you follow any of my suggestions to live a positive life? Do you have any other suggestions? Please let me know in the comment section below. 

The post When A Diagnosis is Challenging it's Time to Stand Strong(er) appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

As I approach my sixty-fifth birthday, I'm taking time to reflect on the significance of this milestone. I consider it a personal victory, having survived multiple sclerosis and other complex challenges over the decades. The song "I'm Still Here" by Stephen Sondheim has been playing in my head, reminding me that I've been through a lot, and I'm still standing where I've always been. HERE.

"Good times and bum times, I've seen them all, and, my dear, I'm still here." 

When my first neurologist explained I had something called multiple sclerosis, he ended the consult by adding that, on average, people with the disease live seven years less than the general population. Gulp. Ordinarily, that last piece of information should have horrified me, but this totally naive twenty-eight-year-old pushed it aside, like Scarlett O'Hara, to think about tomorrow. I was having too much fun with no time to stop for any illness.

Fast forward to the present, and I thought about that neurologist's words about life expectancy, and you know what? F*** him. I have science and thirty-seven years of solid MS research and clean living on my side. So, I'm celebrating this birthday and every birthday to follow!

It's amazing how much progress has been made in the field of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research since my diagnosis in 1986. With the availability of dozens of MS medications and improved diagnostic methods, the statistics regarding life expectancy are constantly evolving. Today, I feel more optimistic than ever before. I'm older and wiser now, and I know that dwelling on what I was told about MS and life expectancy all those years ago is not helpful. Instead, I focus on the positive changes that have been made and the possibilities for the future.

Each day is a gift; we should never take that for granted. I'm determined to focus on what's important and keep moving forward by working on my bucket list items enthusiastically and joyfully. YEAH!

That's reason enough to rejoice as I live a life of purpose, passion, and fun!

Ten years ago, when I was getting ready to celebrate my fifty-fifth birthday, I came across a story about a younger woman who refused to disclose her age to anyone. She even made family members promise to keep her age a secret. I wondered why she wouldn't want to live authentically. I felt so strongly about it that I wrote an article for The Huffington Post.

Women face enormous societal pressures to maintain a youthful appearance. That pressure is reinforced by various mediums such as magazines, television, and advertisements, often promoted by cosmetic and apparel companies. These industries capitalize on the ridiculous narratives about aging.

As women, we should embrace our unique selves and realize that our age and experiences make us beautiful, attractive, wise, and worthy. Every fine line and age spot is a testament to our life journey and the wisdom we've gained. Would I want to be twenty, thirty, or even forty again? Not a chance. So, instead of "aging," we should say "pro-aging" to celebrate the beauty and grace of getting older.

Living with a chronic illness can be challenging, especially as you get older. Every morning may bring new symptoms, and it's difficult to know whether the disease, aging, or both cause them. Determining which search terms to find reliable answers, deciding which doctor to consult, and determining whether a symptom requires medical attention can be overwhelming. Sometimes, you may even wonder if a symptom is all in your head.

I've learned the key is to keep asking questions until you feel comfortable with the answers. I rely on credible websites and keep an open mind about complementary medicine. Never stop reading, learning, being curious, and evolving. That's the best advice I can offer.

I want to finish this post by sharing something I wrote that caused quite a stir on social media. It's from my heart to yours. Always.

Peace to you all, with loving hugs and a healing prayer for good health. xoxo

The post MS, Aging, and Why This Milestone Birthday Matters appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

When my neurologist diagnosed my MS over three decades ago my parents urged me to get a second opinion. I agreed wholeheartedly.

The second neurologist, who came highly recommended, quickly confirmed the diagnosis, then casually added:

"On average people with MS live seven years less than the general population." 

I thought my head would explode...from the diagnosis, the doctor's (ahem) bedside manner, and the mic drop about MS and mortality. Jeez.

With limited information at my disposal in those pre-internet days, I was desperate to research credible information to validate (or invalidate) the doctor's opinions as well as the many other "truths" people felt compelled to tell me.

Knowledge and self-advocacy are power.

I made a pact in those early days to educate myself and those in the MS community with absolute truths about the disease.

We deserve nothing less. 

So here's part two of my series on AGING AND MS. (In case you missed part one please click here.)

I'm sharing another leading resource I rely on for outstanding support and services.

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America. 

Since 1970 this nonprofit organization has lived up to its tagline "improving lives today."

I highly recommend perusing their website to learn more about what MSAA can do for YOU.

Over the years I've gotten to know the President and CEO of MSAA, Gina Murdoch. Leading with compassion and commitment to the MS community, Gina graciously agreed to answer a few questions about aging and MS.  

WAIT! STOP!

Don't turn away because you think, "I'm not 50 yet so this doesn't apply to me."

It certainly does. If not today then someday. Do yourself a favor and keep reading. Some of the links below might even help you RIGHT NOW.

I promise it's worth your time to keep reading.

Let's begin with a quote from Gina Murdoch about aging and MS:

"The MS journey has many challenges and aging with MS is certainly one of them."

Cathy: How has MSAA included the over 50 demographic?

Gina: All of MSAA's programs, core services, and initiatives are available to help those living with MS wherever they are on their MS journey. MSAA's programs and services are inclusive of those living with MS over the age of 50, and specifically include:

MSAA's Helpline:

MSAA provides a toll-free Helpline and Chat that enables individuals with MS, family members, care partners, and friends to speak directly with one of MSAA's experienced specialists. MSAA's Helpline routinely assists those seeking help on topics related to aging and MS.

MSAA's Equipment & Cooling Distribution Programs:

MSAA's Equipment & Cooling Distribution Programs offer products for individuals who need cooling equipment or devices designed to improve safety, mobility, exercise, and daily living capacity.

MSAA MRI Access Program:

The MRI Access Program assists with the payment of cranial (brain) and c-spine MRI scans for qualified individuals who have no medical insurance or cannot afford their insurance costs and require an MRI to evaluate current MS disease progression.

MSAA's Educational Resources:

MSAA's educational programs cover an array of topics featuring leading MS healthcare professionals and include issues that impact individuals living with MS over the age of 50.

Some recent highlights that specifically address aging with MS include:

* * Community Views: Aging Fears with MS (a blog post by MultipleSclerosis.net posted on MSAA's MS Conversations blog - 3/30/2022)

** Ask the Expert - MRI, and MS (4/29/2022)

Dr. Barry Hendin answers questions from the MS community and refers to the need for MRIs as MS patient ages.

** Playing the Cards I'm Dealt (3/14/2022)

Blogger Stacie Prada discusses a look back on her diagnosis and life since that pivotal point in time.

**Ask the Doctor: Questions from our readers

Dr. Hendin addresses age-related questions from the MS community.

Ongoing and future initiatives:

MSAA is currently partnering on research and educational initiatives relating to menopause and MS and is looking to address the issue of aging with MS in a future issue of The Motivator magazine.

My thanks to Gina Murdoch and MSAA for the very fine work they do for our community.

NOTE: Since I mentioned MS and longevity at the start of this post here's some information I gathered for you on the subject. I know this isn't the happiest of topics but please keep in mind that statistics can't possibly measure our unique MS situations. Be sure to check out the links below to Gavin Giovanonni's and Dr. Hendin's articles:

• Here's a post Gavin Giovanonni (Prof G) shared with me that puts this subject into a better perspective. Written by Stephen Jay Gould, Ph.D. it's titled "The Median Isn't the Message" and I HIGHLY recommend reading it.
• According to this WebMD article, Dr. Barry Hendin finds great cause for optimism about longevity and MS.
•  Multiple Sclerosis News Today - MS Prognosis and Life Expectancy
• Multiple Sclerosis News Today - MS Tied to 75% Increased Risk of Mortality in U.S. Study
• My two cents: No two people with MS have it alike. Genetics, stress, environment, what we eat, physical activity, comorbidities, mindset, medications, etc. all play an essential role in our lives. One size of statistics does not fit all. Read, research, talk to your doctor and your community, ask questions, and make your own informed judgment. For me, no set of stats will restrict me from living the best life I possibly can within my abilities

I hope you enjoyed this post. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions below. I truly enjoy hearing from you! 

The post Aging with MS and How YOU Can Manage Your Journey appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

When I was 22 I was in a serious car accident that landed me in the hospital with a concussion and feet that were suddenly numb. I ignored the loss of sensation.

At 27, along with increasing numbness and weakness, I had a few other troubling symptoms. I finally consulted with a neurologist who quickly diagnosed me with multiple sclerosis.

In my thirties, I had more good days than bad.

In my forties and fifties, a few comorbidities reared their ugly heads. The difficult days now outnumbered the rest.

By the time I reached 60, MS had progressed incrementally, making life more complicated and frustrating.

This is my (very) brief MS story through the decades.

Why am I condensing it? To illustrate a point:

At what age did I, and others like me, cross an arbitrary line in the sand that decides when people become "older?"

This is something that's been on my mind for quite a while and I'd like your honest opinion.

I'll wait for your response.

I can't remember when I started to become aware that people of my generation, living with MS, were being excluded in one way or another:

• Being unqualified for MS and non-MS work-related (advocacy) initiatives. It's my guess that opportunities end once a box is checked "between the ages of 55 - 65" on an application.
• Patients over 50 are sometimes advised they no longer need to be on a disease-modifying therapy once their current medication stops working for them. Sometimes this is warranted (and is being studied further),
• Marketing campaigns promote the face of MS as the picture of youthfulness and beauty on social media, television, and in print ads.

It's a fact that most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, so it stands to reason that the public face of the disease is often young.

Yet people over 60 must  be included in a fair and equitable manner. We don't suddenly stop having MS  and we certainly never stop adding value to the world.

We're still here doing what we always did, the best way we know how!

When I noticed this change I unconsciously started feeling alone and bewildered. Who could I talk to who was close to my age and understood how I felt, and did they feel the same way? Most advocates I know are younger, and were diagnosed years after I was.

As unique as MS is to each patient, our experiences of being diagnosed and the initial medical advice we received are as different as night and day.

That's not a bad thing, just different.

I grew concerned that aging wasn't being studied or discussed by the medical, research, and advocate communities. So I thought I'd do a little research to learn more.

It made sense to start my research with the first MS organization I relied on after my 1986 diagnosis, in those pre-internet days.

Using "snail mail" I'd write letters filled with questions to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Their responses were always kind, caring, and helpful.

So I emailed their Chief Advocacy, Services and Science Officer, Tim Coetzee. He was more than generous, bringing me up to speed on how the Society was focused on aging and MS:

• An awareness campaign. (Click on the link to learn more!)
• Many profiles of people age 50+ in the Society's MOMENTUM magazine.
• Various social media campaigns.
• Research investments to gain a better understanding of how aging affects the MS process.
• An anticipated focus on aging in their "Pathways to Cures Roadmap."I'll supply the links from Tim at the end of this post to make it easier for you. I encourage you to take a look.

"At the National MS Society we believe no one should face MS alone, and we are focused on making sure every person touched by this disease can see themselves in the MS movement. We're committed to ensuring that we bring our entire MS community together, it is representative of all the various dimensions of diversity so that everyone feels at home and supported by their National MS Society." - Tim Coetzee 

With the information Tim sent, I not only learned a great deal but I began to feel a little less alone.

It also gave me hope that future generations won't have the kind of concerns I had.

As I was writing this post I happened to come across an interesting podcast by Dr. Barry Singer on aging and MS. (Dr. Singer is Director of the MS Center for Innovations in Care in St. Louis, MO, seen above working with me on a past MS brain health initiative). I recommend tuning in as he interviews two experts on the subject.

We still have much to learn about how aging affects patients, how people can live a better quality of life as they age, and to remind the world of the importance of inclusion.  

As I continue my journey to find other MS programs and research on aging I'll be bringing them directly to you as I find them. That's a promise!

Before I go here are the links provided by Tim Coetzee on behalf of NMSS:

MS through the ages
Struggling to stay standing
My own therapy
You want to know what?
Fighting for access
Blessings in miles and meters
Speaking out
Good companions
Finding gratitude
From visual to visionary
Meet our 2020 Inspiration Award winners
Summer at home
Black women with MS speak up
Obstacles to access
Gardening with MS
Still in charge
Others like me
Roll with it

Thanks for stopping by to read this post. I'm glad to have you here! Please feel free to leave your comments or questions below. I'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Have a peace-filled day!

Photo Credit: NMSS

The post Aging, MS, and the Questions We Need Answered appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

As we lumber through the difficult, polarizing days of 2020 I'm reminded of the last time Americans faced this much turbulence.

It was 1968 and the United States had a president with low approval ratings, the war in Vietnam had no end in sight, Olympic athletes protested racial injustice, two shocking acts of violence took the lives of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, feminists protested misogynistic attitudes toward women and bitter divisions between citizens threatened to rip the social fabric of our country apart.

We lost a deep sense of community that year. What I mean by community is when people support and share their experiences and struggles out of a deep concern for others. Community is what builds lasting relationships and provides us with a strong sense of belonging.

In 1968 the black clouds of turbulence and trauma were tearing our communities apart. In 2020, here we go again.

“We were born to unite with our fellow men, and to join
in community with the human race.” – Cicero

Growing up in suburban New Jersey I was keenly aware of current events but like most nine-year-olds my world centered on school and social activities. The headlines of 1968 seemed far removed from my hometown, my neighborhood, and from me.

I grew up in a neighborhood built during postwar America when families moved from cities to the suburbs. When I look back it reminds me of the childhood scenes in "It's a Wonderful Life." There were plenty of children close to my age and we often played outdoors together. In summer it was kickball or kick-the-can and in winter we took our Flexible Flyers and metal saucers to the top of the hill for the thrill of sledding down several adjoining backyards.

The only instructions from our parents was to be home before dark.

Our childhood was a unique and idyllic one that helped us establish important values of a lifetime - kindness, integrity, truth, fairness, decency, trust, and cemented bonds of friendships that have lasted for sixty years.

“The world is so empty if one thinks only of mountains, rivers, and cities; but to know someone who thinks and feels with us, and who, though distant, is close to us in spirit, this makes the earth for us an inhabited garden.” ― Goethe

Not everyone grew up in a neighborhood like ours and I'm cognizant of that. The values I learned all those years ago are ones I've leaned on in my darkest days. This year I've needed them more than ever.

As the nation faces four simultaneous crises: a pandemic, economic upheaval, systemic racism and social injustice, our country is fractured between blue and red, left and right. Such division hasn't occurred since 1968 and this state of affairs is troubling.

I wish I had a magic wand to heal the world. I'd return a strong sense of community to reignite moral and ethical values. I think it's what we need.

Our deeply divided country is lashing out from the anger and frustration we feel. Can we ever heal and rebuild trust in each other? Can we pause and open our hearts to someone else's point of view? Can we begin the difficult task of constructive conversations with people of differing views? Will our dire situation remain unsolvable?

I'm not happy with the cancel culture but I'll admit to unfollowing people who refuse to wear masks and tell others to do the same. I unfollow those who are mean, violent, or spread fear, hate, or lies. I don't want them at my table.

Alan Alda, who now focuses on communication skills through his Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Book University, is quoted as saying the following:

"Trust...is the essential building block of any good conversation, especially with someone who may not be on the same page. 'You're not going to have trust if you assume, before you even start, that this person is beneath contempt,' he said. Think about 'what ways this person is not your enemy' and even 'in what ways you're very much alike.'" ~Alan Alda.

Our negative emotions are unhealthy and need to be tamed for the sake of wellness. How can we do that?

As I thought about writing this post it occurred to me that the lessons I learned as a patient are applicable to everyone this year:

• Listen to your body. If you experience unusual symptoms such as pain, bowel or bladder dysfunction, extraordinary fatigue, or cognitive dysfunction, it could be a cry for help. Contact your medical team.
  NOTE: This is for COVID and non-COVID related issues.
• Manage stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can cause many physical and emotional symptoms. Look for ways to tame them, such as meditation, walks in nature, breathwork, yoga, t'ai chi, laughter, exercise, connections, journalling, the proper amount of sleep, healthy eating, learning to say no, finding creative outlets like singing or painting, or seeking professional help.
• Keep your distance. In a pre-COVID world, the MS community knew to stay away from people who were sick. Today we must all stay at least six feet from others in order to do our best to stay healthy.
• Maintain relationships. We nurture our relationships because we all need human connections. There are many benefits to staying connected such as lowering anxiety and depression, regulating emotions, higher self-esteem and empathy, and improving the immune system. By neglecting connections you're actually putting your health at risk. One plus one can equal a whole.

In a pandemic world, here are a few ways to maintain a sense of community:

Social isolation. Social isolation is a real problem for many people. Consider calling someone who lives alone. Drop off a meal, send a text, write a letter, send flowers. Remember to ask how someone is feeling and if they need anything.

Stay connected. Social media can be many things but in the age of emotional devastation and uncertainty, it has the potential to create connectedness. It can integrate the elderly and vulnerable populations into everyday lives. It can create sustained, engaged concern for the wellbeing of others.

Join a group. During the pandemic, there are many ways to find others with similar interests. I've taken online yoga classes, meditation, and wellness classes, art museum tours, and group business coaching events. All were interactive and held on Zoom. I found them easy to maneuver, pleasurable, and they helped ease stress and anxiety.

Zoom or FaceTime: I've reacquainted myself with old friends and relatives I fell out of touch with by using the Zoom app. It's been a lot of fun with tons of laughter, and very gratifying. Now that we have more time for ourselves it's the perfect time to schedule a session with those you've been thinking about.

To paraphrase a quote from the Talmud:

Whoever destroys a soul it is considered as if he destroyed an entire world. And whoever saves a life it is considered as if he saved an entire world.

With the upcoming holiday season let's remember that being kind to even one person can help save the world. Let's do our best to build a sense of community, one kind word at a time. Let's get started...

The post The Importance of a Sense of Community and Belonging in Polarizing Times appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

My demographic, people age 50 and up, face discrimination on a regular basis whether it's in healthcare, qualifying for clinical trials, or in the workplace.

That is why I signed up to participate in a six-month wellness study on aging and physical disability being conducted by the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Washington. It's an easy and important way to use your voice to educate others on aging with MS and other medical conditions.

If you're age 45 - 64 and are diagnosed with any medical condition (such as Muscular Dystrophy, Amputation, Spinal Cord Injury, CMT, Multiple Sclerosis, etc) I urge you to sign up by calling 1-866-928-2114 or emailing communityhealthstudy@uw.ed

See below for more details

Thanks to MS Views and News for alerting me to this study. If you haven't subscribed to the MSVN newsletter click here. It's filled with essential information for the entire MS community.

The post I'm Participating in a Health Study on Aging and Disability - Want to Join Me? appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

It’s my birthday and I'm celebrating, as Elaine Stritch famously sang, because I’m still here. 

I’ve always loved birthdays, so why should I stop celebrating them now? Aging shouldn’t change how we see ourselves, and as women why should it? We've earned every wrinkle from a life well-lived, and our beauty certainly lies within. Maybe that’s why I never understood people who insist on hiding their age. What’s the point? Is it better to face the alternative? Exactly. 

Birthdays are special and important because life is so delicious and quite precious. It all goes by too quickly so carpe diem! Seize the day.

Remember when birthday parties were at home? (1967)

My chronic illnesses won’t stop me from feeling this way. To paraphrase my husband, I still have a childlike innocence about me, and for that I am thankful.

So today I celebrate and am grateful for so much:

• My “circle of people” who surround me, the ones who love me and I love back, unconditionally. 
• The victories I’m able to accomplish each day, both big and small.
• I pray our country will repair and rebuild itself back to the core values of decency and honor that our Founding Fathers insisted on and fought so hard for.
• The dedication of countless men and women worldwide who search for better therapies, medicines, and cures that will be accessible to everyone, for all diseases.
• I’m grateful for the growing number of choices of better therapies and medicines to lessen the severity of my battles, helping me to function as best as possible. 
• I celebrate the community of health advocates I now call my friends for their courage and bravery despite unthinkable adversities. They advocate for their communities despite personal challenges. I’m in awe of them. 
• I’m beyond blessed to have a loving and supportive husband and son who take care of me without question. They cheer me on during good days and bad. I could never live as full a life if it weren’t for their constant love and devotion. 
• I celebrate the gift of nature, the antidote for whatever ails me. Whether walking county trails, watching the sunset, or snuggling with my sweet cat, nature solves more than any therapy session.

I’ll admit that life isn’t perfect and rosy. Far from it. My MS has changed in many ways since my diagnosis and I’ve accumulated a few other autoimmune annoyances. At times they wreak havoc on me and I can spend days on end cooped up at home wondering when it’ll all be over, if at all. I do my best to manage my health with a lot of self-care to literally get me back on my feet.   

So Happy 61st Birthday to me! I look forward to adventures ahead despite any setbacks that come my way, and to the endless possibilities that lie before me. I know I can do this. 

I also want to celebrate YOU for being with me here in this space. It means so much to have you join my journey. Thank you for your kind and caring comments. You’ll never know how much they mean to me. 

Since I get extra birthday wishes (because I say I do!) I WISH YOU a healthy, joyful, and peaceful life.     

Namaste. 

The post I'm Celebrating Because I'm Still Here, And So Much More appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

We all have many chapters in our lives based on the experiences and lessons we collect along life's journey. At birth, we're a clean slate, ready to create the unique imprint we'll make on the world. How our chapters are written depends on the direction of our sails. Light or heavy winds are often unpredictable.

Today I turn 60. Unlike Barbie, who debuted the month after I was born, I am not unchanged. I'm a product of my environment and every choice I've made. I'm grounded by the values and friendships I established in my formative years and the ones I collected along the way.

Age never bothered me. As the youngest child of three, I'm guessing the status of my being a sexagenarian is surreal to my family. But honestly, as Abraham Lincoln famously said:

And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.  

What tugs at my heart on this birthday are the things I haven't done, the places I've never seen and the experiences I'd love to have. Someone recently told me to just do it! Easier said than done. Time, work, managing illness and money are four things that come to mind.

• I yearn to travel to Germany to the town of my father's birth. I want to walk the streets where he ran and played as a boy before a monster forced his family to flee. I want to visit the house where he was born, the one my great-grandfather built and remarkably still stands today.
• I want to visit the national parks I haven't yet visited, travel to parts of Europe, Australia, and Africa and revisit Israel.
• I want to swim with dolphins, snorkel in turquoise water on exotic islands, and volunteer at an elephant sanctuary.
• I dream of attending a Turner Classic Movies Film Festival in Hollywood. Classic films are my obsession. Unfortunately, older film stars who've appeared in the past are gone. Who will be left when I'm finally able to go?
• I want to finally be able to move to a warmer climate, one where I don't have to brave harsh winter temperatures that wreak havoc on my MS.

Time passes in the blink of an eye, and what's certain is that life moves forward. People come in and out of your life, some by circumstance, others by death. The ones you miss are gone forever but never from your heart.

And so I move on to the next chapters of my life. My mind is singularly focused that the best years are still in front of me.

Let's all keep hope in our hearts that life will be good, always filled with a little magic. Think positive thoughts. Be kind. Pay it forward. Stay social. Be as physically active as possible. Move forward despite obstacles. Be courageous. Fight fear. Live the best life within your abilities. Remember your blessings. Be grateful. 

So Happy 60th to the high school graduating class of 1977! We've faced our share of joys and sorrow, hurdles and accomplishments but we made it through. We're champions for surviving six decades. I wish all of you many chapters of light and love, with the hope that you live a sweet and happy life.

I'll let the words of Freddie Mercury's 1977 hit song end this post for me. He said it best about all of us:

ONE LAST THOUGHT ON AGING FROM MARIA POPOVA:
But who is the person staring back at us from the mirror as the decades roll by? The mystery of what makes you and your childhood self the same person despite a lifetime of changes is, after all, one of the most interesting questions of philosophy. Perhaps the greatest perplexity of aging is how to fill with gentleness the void between who we feel we are on the inside and who our culture tells us is staring back from that mirror. ~ Maria Popova in her extraordinary Brain Pickings on "Grace Paley on the Art of Growing Older."

The post Happy 60th Birthday - We Are The Champions appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

After speaking with several people in the multiple sclerosis community who were experiencing a particularly difficult year I wondered what I could do to help them. Their self-esteem was plummeting and they were questioning their place in the world. Despite several constructive conversations, it occurred to me they are enough exactly as they are. 

Simplistic, I know, but very powerful.

I sat down and wrote the following for them. It must have hit a nerve because it drew a lot of attention throughout social media. And not only from those living with MS.

Can you guess why?

No one escapes this life without facing hurdles. We all have struggles and sometimes they feel insurmountable. On those days we need someone to remind us that we are perfect just as we are. 

That includes YOU. Yes, YOU!

Living with a disability can sometimes make you less productive than you want to be.

You are enough.

The post You Are Enough Exactly As You Are appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

In the age of “fake news” smart readers have become more scrupulous about the information they read. They can smell dishonesty and insincerity a mile away. As children, we learn the importance of telling the truth but somewhere along the line, some adults forget that lesson.

“The truth is rarely pure and never simple.” ~Oscar Wilde

I find myself at another crossroads of telling my own truth because I want to be open about my journey. It’s not an easy one to discuss but I know I need to tell it.

I thought long and hard about whether to write this post. As I quietly thought about my dilemma I again thought about Elizabeth Lesser’s inspiring book “Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow” as it reminded me that breaking myself open would not only be cathartic but could also bridge the gap between despair and empowerment for others.

The first year I began to blog I was hesitant and anxious about revealing my health-related stories. I didn’t want to sound whiny or absurd. Then I gained confidence when I realized I was making a difference. Readers would talk about a sense of renewed courage and determination to fight the daily struggles of chronic illness. That gave me the encouragement to keep on writing.   

So here I am, once again, telling my story. This time I’ll take a few cleansing breaths before I begin.

This new diagnosis is a doozy.

In the summer of 2017 I began noticing some hair loss. I'd find more than the usual amount of hairs in my brush, clumps of hair in my hands while shampooing and areas of my scalp that weren’t previously visible when I looked in the mirror.

I thought this might be due to age, or from the stress of losing loved ones over a twelve month period of time - my beloved father-in-law then my beloved father, then our sweet and amazing cat, Max. (Only pet lovers will understand the heartbreak of losing a pet.)

This past summer I made an appointment to see a dermatologist. He tested for the possibility of other autoimmune diseases like Lyme and was happy to report the results were negative.

Then he cleared his throat to tell me something I didn’t understand. I asked him to repeat it.  

I have female pattern alopecia (androgenetic alopecia.) Before you start googling it here’s the definition:

“Progressive loss of scalp hair in women, characterized by diffuse thinning on the crown but rarely leading to baldness; androgenetic alopecia. Also called female pattern hair loss.” Medical Dictionary

Female pattern alopecia requires a medical diagnosis and I’ve had two opinions from two dermatologists. They both took blood tests and scalp biopsies. FPA isn’t curable, it’s genetic and for me, it's surreal.

There isn’t much research in the area of hair loss. For now, I’m using the daily topical treatment Rogaine for men (5% minoxidil) that’s FDA approved. Rogaine doesn’t rescue hair but stimulates new hair growth. If you stop using it hair will continue to shed. I’ll be using Rogaine for the rest of my life. There’s no guarantee it will work, but it’s the only game in town.

In addition to Rogaine, I’m taking the prescription Spironolactone, a diuretic (water pill) that also blocks the androgen (hormone) that miniaturizes hair follicles. This medication is supposed to reduce hair shedding and increase hair growth. Again, no guarantees.

I’ve lost hair around the top and sides of my hairline and at the crown. Overall my hair is now thinner and grows slowly after a trip to the salon.

I’m also following the advice of Dr. Josh Axe, a natural medicine doctor and clinical nutritionist, by massaging a mixture of essential oils into my scalp (clary sage, rosemary, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and cedarwood) every night.

It’s ideal to keep stress at bay, weed out toxic behavior, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. I already follow an anti-inflammatory diet for MS since MS is an inflammatory immune condition. I practice gentle yoga, meditate daily, and attend weekly sessions of acupuncture by a nurse who’s also an expert in Chinese medicine.

So there you have it, my official third diagnosis.

Multiple Sclerosis, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and female pattern alopecia all have something to do with inflammation. They’re also incurable.

My brain, gut and hair follicles are under attack and I wish I could win the war.

Sometimes I harbor dark feelings that my body is failing me after fighting so many uphill battles for so many years. Learning that I am losing hair brought on a different kind of darkness, the kind that stems from vanity - yes, I’ll admit it - and feeling less than feminine.

When I’m living in that dark space I know how to crawl out. I count all of my blessings. Aside from supportive family and friends I know that none of my diagnoses are terminal and for that I am deeply grateful.

Well-meaning family and friends tell me their hair is also thinning, but it’s simply not the same. Thinning hair is never fun for anyone and I’d never pass judgment on how others feel about their hair. The changes in our bodies as the year's pass can be difficult.

But hair thinning and alopecia are two different things.

When I read discussions in private Facebook groups about women’s hair loss and notice threads about the best wigs and transplants it’s unsettling. I want my thick, curly, mind-of-its-own hair back. Shame on me for ever complaining about it.  

My hair over the years

For now I can cover my bare scalp with my curls. I hope Rogaine will help restore or strengthen the hair follicles.

Now the work begins again. I know what I have to do. Dig in my heels and go into crazy researcher mode because It’s best to start treatments as soon as possible to avoid irreparable hair loss.  

I hope by telling my story I can help remove the stigma attached to women’s hair loss. Women should be confident no matter what they/we look like. Our value lies in who we are.

Please don’t feel sorry for me. I really don't want that. My new reality requires me to stay strong. No stress. No panic. No sorrow.

My other diagnoses taught me many lessons, to hold on tight, hope for the best, ask questions, communicate with others, consult with the best doctors, remain calm and put your health first. 

Please share your thoughts, recommendations, and/or suggestions. Do you have ideas on taming inflammation? Do you have SIBO, female pattern alopecia or MS? Have you tried anything that does or doesn't work? Have you used complementary medicine to address your condition(s)? Can you suggest a reputable specialist/trichologist?

Trichologists are hair and scalp specialists (one type of skin specialist) who diagnose the causes of hair fall, hair breakage, hair thinning, miniaturization of hairs, diseases of the scalp, and treat according to cause. - Wikipedia  

One last thing: I know I’ll always be okay because…..

One morning as I was inspecting my thinning spots in the mirror my husband caught a glimpse of the sadness in my eyes. He walked over, gave a shy smile, kissed my forehead and my head. I feel truly loved and that will help me through any rough patches ahead. With him in my corner, there’ll always be a light at the end of the tunnel.

What a corny ending, but I’ve always been a sucker for them.

Here's a list of what I am currently using to fight FPA. The shampoo is a bit pricey but hopefully will be worth it. All products were ordered on Amazon.com.

I won't receive any commissions for your purchases. I list them for informational purposes only.

Shampoo and conditioner

Left to right: Hair Max is a natural supplement to strengthen hair and block DHT, Saw Palmetto is a natural hair supplement to help fight hair loss, Toppik is a powder of keratin hair fibers used to give the appearance of thick, full hair.

Products recommended to me:

"iRestore Laser Hair Growth System + Rechargeable Battery Pack – FDA-Cleared Hair Loss Product - Treats Thinning Hair for Men & Women - Laser Hair Therapy Restores Hair Thickness, Volume, Density"~Amazon.com

Other recommendations:
Davina's Shampoo and Conditioner
Bamboo based shampoo
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) Therapy - A three-step medical treatment where a patient’s blood is drawn, processed, and then injected into the scalp.

NOTE: This blog post is not meant to serve as medical advice or a recommendation for treatment. This is my own unique story. If you think you're losing more hair than usual consider scheduling a consultation with a qualified doctor.

The post Breaking Myself Open: How a Third Diagnosis Can Change You appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.

I know it's been awhile since I wrote in this space but I needed to take a step back for a bit of a breather. We all deserve breathers once in awhile, so I guess it was just my turn.

As 2017 comes to a close I think back on all that's happened. It's been a pretty crappy year.

As I type these words I think about the challenges I faced that helped me grow in new and different ways. Like a baby taking its first steps, I am walking in unchartered territory. It's scary, hopeful and disarming.

I never liked making resolutions for the new year, but when the clock strikes twelve on New Year's Eve I'll say a prayer for a kinder year.

Here are a few things I'm hoping for. Perhaps you are too.

Love - To be surrounded by those who love me whether I'm well or not and understand that looking good doesn't necessarily mean wellness.

Friendship - I've been blessed with incredible friends who I love dearly. I hope none grow tired of my need to cancel, sometimes at the last minute. This year I canceled almost a dozen social and business engagements. I hope that number changes. I miss socializing with good friends and attending important professional conferences and events.

Wellness - This is an overused term, yet it's my goal and I'll do whatever it takes to make it happen. A new gastroenterologist, acupuncturist, and nutritionist will help me find my way.

Kindness, Compassion, and Forgiveness - When someone isn't in my corner I want to remember to keep kindness and compassion in my heart. I want to forgive those who've been unkind. The only way to inner peace is to forgive others and to forgive yourself. If everyone on the planet did this our world would be a better place.

Move forward - I want to keep my eye on the prize of happiness, both personally and professionally. Releasing what hurts from the past helps you step more easily into the next chapter. As for grief, that's a process that takes as long as it takes. It's different for everyone. To that end, things will never be the same. Still, we have to keep moving forward to successfully survive. That is the goal, to survive.

"Forget what hurt you but never forget what it taught you."~Sharon Adler

Gratitude - I am grateful for the unconditional love and support of my friends and family. I am grateful for every reader of my blog. I hope the experiences and information I share gives you a chance to stop, think, and be motivated to be your own best fabulous self.

Thank you for being a lovely part of my life and for following me on my crazy journey. I wish you a joyous, healthy and prosperous 2018! Peace and good health to all.

The post As The Year Ends There's Something I Need To Say appeared first on An Empowered Spirit | A Life with Multiple Sclerosis.