When I write posts about my chronic illness I wonder if I sound whiny or insincere. I'd hate to think I do. When I began to blog I held back on opening up my heart for fear that readers would lose interest.
After five years of blogging I found that people find hope and strength in my stories. I say that with great humility. If something I've said resonates, if I've touched someone's soul, THAT is the reason why I blog.
To make a difference.
March is MS Awareness Month, but I believe every day is an opportunity for awareness.
[ctt template="7" link="9Xz17" via="yes" ]March is MS Awareness Month: Why am I still thankful for my diagnosis? #MSAwarenessMonth #ChangingaLifeMSAA #MultipleSclerosis[/ctt]
Two years ago I wrote a post for MS Awareness Month about why I'm thankful for my diagnosis. I explained how my diagnosis gave me a sense of purpose and introduced me to the extraordinary people I meet on this crazy and sometimes difficult journey
As odd as it sounds it's how I felt. It's still how I feel.
Here are a few more reasons why I'm thankful.
If I was never diagnosed I never would have:
(Monday to Sunday): Watch this sweet and informational video created by the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America who are committed to making a difference in the lives of people with MS.
"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. MS damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves of the CNS, and can potentially injure the nerves as well. This damage causes reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common MS symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, and various levels of impaired mobility. Many experts estimate that 2.5 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with this disease, and most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 50. MS is not contagious and researchers continue to look for both a cause and a cure."~ Multiple Sclerosis Association of America