My MS Story, by Tina Marchese
My MS Story
As one progresses in the journey of life nothing is for certain, not even life itself. My MS journey began in October 2016. My relapse was caused by Optical Neuritis. In the beginning I couldn’t wrap my mind around those words, you have RRMS. Was this real?! During my 4 days at Johns Hopkins I had a conversation with a nurse about my diagnosis. She said to me “When Life Gives You Lemons, you make Lemonade”. This was my “lemon” and that moment I was determined to crush it. I live a very active lifestyle. Workouts, family ski trips, Road Races, teaching Les Mills BodyPump, I have a lot to keep up on. And I was not letting this disease take over.
Over the year I have learned to really listen to my body and pull back when I need to. My core heats up and so do my MS symptoms. Using cooling packs helps tremendously. This is part of the learning process. From the start Neurology said to keep working out, eat healthy and relieve any stress in my life. And that is what I have done. I truly believe the combinations of working out, clean eating and a strong positive outlook in this fight is keeping my MS at bay.
Another part of my journey is having an amazing team of support. I couldn’t do this without my friends and family. With every doctor appointment, MRI and Tysabri infusion I always know that there are so many people sending me positive vibes of support. These people keep me going and keep me strong.
Every day is an unknown with this mysterious disease and I take each day on with a positive attitude and knowing I am crushing this disease as best as I can. I encourage and hope everyone battling this disease will do the same.
#crushinglemons
Tina Marchese
MS4MS Ambassador and MS Fighter
Tina I know you are an inspiration to all who is fighting MS.. Your out look is beautiful! Stay crushing them lemons!!!