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