Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way first. I woke up one day in April 2017 and my life changed forever. I remember laying down in this MRI in the middle of the night after my wife rushed me to the hospital thinking “ok, no matter what this is, I am going to beat it.” It took a while, but eventually I heard the words “You have Multiple Sclerosis”. Yep, I had to google it. I never knew anyone with MS and I had no idea what it was going to do to me and everyone in my life.

I often think back to that night in the MRI. Many of us live our lives in terms of wins or losses. We either beat the opponent or we get beat. I grew up playing football, and played all through college. We were taught that if there is a WILL, there is a way. Here is the lesson I learned about life after being diagnosed with a rare disease: You have to be WILLING, not willful. This is how you win.

MS does not keep score. The key is to accept that this is a part of your life and be willing to accept the support and love of those around you. I must admit that there are days, especially early on, when I did not want to hear this. All of us who live with MS go through a unique journey. For me, my body just did not work the same way from my head to my toes. Man, does it come at you fast. There is something I would love everyone to understand about receiving a surprise medical diagnosis. There are obviously the physical challenges.

Remember that not all of them are visible. Also, there are significant mental and financial challenges to any disease. It breaks my heart to know that so many people struggle with this part. I know how it feels and I am a person with an unbelievable support system. MS4MS plays a key role in helping people in need. Please support them! They are so generous and will fight for those who do not have the resources. Lastly, if you love someone with MS, you need to also be willing to accept that we are learning to live with this thing. Be patient and listen. It will do more for the person than you can ever imagine.

Ok, let’s get to the good stuff. As my body quickly started to change, I eventually became very willing to get the help I needed. I’m a fortunate guy, and I know it. First and foremost, I am a man of great faith, and believe me, I had to lean on it, and always will. Next, I am married to a Saint. My wife Christy and I have been together since we were 15. We have been married for 28 years and are blessed with 4 wonderful kids. She is the kindest and most loving person on this earth.

Lastly, I am born and raised in the City of Champions, Pittsburgh, PA. We are proud of both our sports champions but also our medical champions. I have been cared for by the most brilliant and dedicated healthcare professionals anyone could ask for. It is indeed humbling to ask for help. But, my wife and doctors have carried me and allowed me to truly live with MS.

I recently celebrated by 5 year diagnosis. That’s right, I said celebrate! Because I was willing to accept that MS was a part of my life; and my life has been filled with positivity. Christy and I get up every morning and take a walk together. I had the courage to finally start the career I always wanted helping others find their dream job as an Executive Search professional.

My former career required me to travel almost every week of the year for the last 20 years. Now, I am home everyday, have a home office and, at age 50, I was named the Rookie Of The Year for the entire company. How is that for winning?! Probably the most meaningful work I do is volunteering in the MS community. My personal passion is helping the newly diagnosed and well as working with employers to understand the needs of people with MS and other hidden disabilities.

I have met the most wonderful people on my journey with MS. One of the most impressive people I have encountered is Sam Greenberg, the founder of MS4MS. I have read all of the stories on the website and the inspiration has been life changing. I’m so happy I was willing to live with MS. Maybe someday, if we are all willing, none of us will have to live with it anymore. Until then, I’m going to keep finding reasons to celebrate!