Saying hello to 2017

As this year ends and a new year begins, I cross over this bridge. With every step, I will let the negative things flow down the stream.  Saying goodbye to 2016 and its events that carried me through this journey, leaving me with a strong positive mindset.  

With this MS journey of mine, I like many others with this disease have been struggling with depression. My depression was not just from my diagnosis of having this illness, has been from what the illness has done to me from my past relapses.  I often struggle off and on throughout the year. With the lack of sun in the winter months, it is important that I stay consistent with taking my Vitamin D. In my research, it is  repetitive in my findings within MS research sites, which states that with MS and taking this supplement, improves our health and helps diminishes some of the symptoms that we with MS often experience. Such as; Fatigue, Numbness, Tingling, Memory, dizziness, blurry vision, just to mention a few.

Some start the New Year with: "New Year, New me". For me, that saying is nothing but a load of crap!  I do, however, use this time of year to look back and measure how my disease is affecting my health,  my family, my over-all well-being and how it is affecting my life. How I can now improve things. 

Depression had been one of the things I have been struggling with this year.  Which is why I find I haven't been doing my blog posts.  Some of the MS symptoms I have been experiencing this past year has affected me not only emotionally but also physically. Keeping me closer to home.  I know these things usually pass just as many of the other symptoms have. It just seems that it affected me on a deeper level then the symptoms in the past have. 

Maybe, triggering the thoughts within me, telling me; "Yes girl, you really do have MS, now deal with it!" Now get out there and improve your life while you can. You face each day on a positive thought.  Physically do what you can to improve your health, because, you are the only one that can do it.  

No one can do it for you.

What is it you would like to improve this year? 

Let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear your feedback.

Sherry

* Please read ~ Disclaimer* 

3 Reasons why I have a hard time in public with MS

Hey, There!

Last night I went to my first WW, (Weight Watchers) meeting in like two years. I was very apprehensive to go.  I had mixed feelings while I was on this twenty-minute drive.  I was feeling very unsure and may be experiencing a little anxiety.  

First of all, that I had to go to a "meeting" just to get this weight off that I gained due to my trial medication for depression. I had been going to Weight Watchers off and on since 2004.  Feeling disappointed in myself that I couldn't lose this extra weight on my own.  In turn, telling myself that; "I shouldn't be so hard on myself. That going to the meetings in the past gave me friendly support from others who want to lose as well. The local meetings did actually help keep me more accountable. 

Secondly, I knew there was going to be a new leader and well as new members. ---- New members? ------ Thinking, that there will probably people going that I had known from the past years. ------ Yes, maybe a little anxiety was going on? Living in a small northern Ontario community, everyone knows everyone. 

Let me explain why I was getting freaked out a little. You see, since my last major relapse. In which I got my original diagnosis of MS, this Monster had also taken parts of my memory.  In scenarios like these, it takes remembering who people are or were. I always see the face, but to remember who and where they lived? How were they apart of my life in the past? Well, the MS Monster has taken a big part of that memory from me. Remembering things that took place, people I once knew and sadly, sometimes even people I have recently met.

Sometimes, I do feel comfortable saying; "I am sorry, but how is it that I know you?  I recognize you. However, I just can't place how I know you?" Which sometimes in these cases, the situation goes downhill quickly.  As the person has no idea that I have progressed in any illness and becomes questionable. You can see the disappointment as  they showing discussed in their facial expressions. Often not even realizing it.  All due to the fact I can't remember them and I should. Oftentimes they quickly expose our dealings and that they were a major client of our families business in the distant or recent past. Sometimes it hearing their story tweaks my memory.

Ninety-five percent of the time I feel embarrassed and upset because of their unknown reaction I had seen.  Not only with myself not being able to remember, but their own reaction of feeling unimportant.  Then I explain why I don't remember them and apologize to sooth their quick judgment. 

Trying to ease the situation, their reaction is to brush it off as though they too have memory issues and that it is all a part of old age. Then they openly explain how we know each other. I have learned that when this happens it is their lack of knowledge of the disease itself and see that they are the one feeling bad. They by saying this are only trying to make me feel better about the whole situation.  Making others feel bad is never my intention at all.  These moments are the ones that make me feel most uncomfortable with having this MS Monster living within me. Other times introductions and meetings go smoothly without incident which comes to such a big relief to me.

Thirdly, when I am out there are when a few people find out what it is that I have they automatically think of someone they know who has Multiple Sclerosis. Then quickly spits out negative comments. I am now aware that they think they are trying to make me understand that they know what it is that I am going through.  Little known to them, that they are only just hurtful and negative comments.   Saying things you should never say to someone with MS.

Comments like: 

• "But you look so good, how can you be sick?"
• "You're not in a wheelchair or have a cane yet, you are doing so good!"
• "I know someone with that and they are; in a wheelchair now, can't talk, and now needs extra care." 
• "So and so died from MS."
•  "My nabour has that and she now can't drive" or "lost her job because she can't work." 
• "All you need to do is eat better and exercise"
• 
  
• "Did you hear about "so and so" they were cured. Why don't you try what they did?"

Knowing their intentions are not meant to be, curl or mean.  However, each case of MS is different.  I understand that they many are truly trying to be nice. Only trying to make me feel that they understand what I am going through and not alone. Speaking for many others with MS these comments are actually offensive. 

I use these moments to try and educate others on what Multiple Sclerosis is and how far they have come with gaining knowledge about it.  How close they have moved toward finding a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.  I also reassure them that those of us that are our own advocates of MS are on top of the research that is happening at any moment of any time.  Most of us who have MS, know more about what we have, how to manage it and what new treatments have come available then our own family doctors.  Keep in mind.  Our family doctors don't just specialize in one illness but help treat many illnesses.  I am truly grateful for my family doctor and her staff, as they are always there for me and are quick to help when I am having MS issues or a flare-up.

In conclusion to my first meeting. I feel that it turned out well.  We had enough people join that our meetings could run until the middle of April.  Sad that I had to pay for my meeting membership even though I had an online membership.  I did see a couple women that I do know and hadn't seen in a long time. I also got to meet our new leader, who seems quite nice and positive. She is more than willing to answer questions and help us in any way. I am looking forward to our next meeting in a week. 

Why I cut my long hair off?

"Eeeeeek!" AsI heard the sound of my six inch hair sliding down the back side of the hairdressers cape as the clippers buzzed. Yep! It was too late to change my mind! I quickly raised my hand and ran my fingers through the back of my head!


"Wow, its all gone!" I thought. As the girl asked me  for the third time, if I was okay with it being gone.

Sensing, she too was just as hesitant on quickly cutting it so short. ....
"Yes!" I said "To late to turn back now, isn't it?" and laughed. "It will grow back fast if I don't like it anyway! No worries! Its' going to be a  big change for me!"

I was pleased when she explained to me how thick my hair is and how full my new cut would look. I was happy as when I started my drug modifying therapy drugs, (DMT's), Copaxzone injections, the first few months my hair was coming out by the handfuls.  Scared the crap out of me! I honestly thought, I would never have a thick head of hair again.  So this was a relief.

Surprisingly, the big heap of hair that she swept up when she was done, made me feel good. Happy to have it off, as I knew it would be so much easier to look after and do in the mornings. Good hair for me is the best way to start my day.

Now, a couple days later, I often catch myself running my fingers through my hair still. A habit I have gained having long hair. But when reaching the back where I used to let it drop as it reaches the end.  Awkwardly, now feeling its shortness, I find my self saying; "Oh yes! Its' gone!"

Still this being so new, I also find myself taking a double take in any one of my mirrors around my house, taking a second take, saying; "What the hell?" Then I quickly remind myself, "You cut it off." Shake my head at myself, smile, giggle a little and go on with what I was doing.

This isn't the first time I have done a drastic cut to my hair when I worked hard to let it grow long. This time, I just couldn't let it grow any longer. It took me so long to do, dry and manage. More energy then I wanted to spend, on just doing my hair each morning. Also, my hands and fingers don't always want to work with me on somedays, with MS. So assuming this is going to make it easier too. I am hoping that the little headaches will not come back, feeling they where being caused from the heaviness of my hair.

You see, I feel I  had a M S pseudo relapse a couple weeks ago.  I knew it a new hair cut would give me that spark and the lift I needed to keep pushing myself, mentally and physically to regain control of my health.

I am so happy with this hair cut. I am glad I stepped out and took the chance to change something that is such importance to me.   I was debating  to do it for some time.  When contemplating cutting it, I replayed  the voices of a few good friends, in my mind telling me, how much better I look with short hair. Thank you for those who are honest and chance to voice their opinions. Plus, thanks to hubby for telling me it looks sexy! ;)

I know doing my hair is so much quicker to do.  Leaving my morning routine quicker and easier. Now it will be easier for my to follow this one saying,  No matter how you feel. Just get up. Dress up, Show up and Never give up!

A change is good!

Have yourself a great day!
MS and living life..... Sherry

Fall season is a glimmer of hope with MS

As autumn/fall arrives, we with MS always look forward to the ability to get out doors and once again push ourselves to be active. A relief of the summer heat, a brighter hope for a new beginning to life and strive for a healthier living. Accompanied by the cooler temperatures changing colours of the leaves.  This feels like, the moment the butterfly realizes he is no longer in his cocoon, and stretches is wings for the first time. 

The beginning of a journey that draws us strength and energy to reunite us with the energetic and happy person we know is still deep inside. I speak for those of us with Multiple Sclerosis that are heat sensitive. 

As each year, or season, weather differs. But once again this fall weather the quick fluctuation in temperatures and weather plays a toll on those like myself and my Multiple Sclerosis. This seems to play a roll in weakening our immune systems that is already over worked from constantly fighting our own systems within ourselves daily.  In addition to the fall having fluctuating temperatures and weather comes contact with others.  Being out more with others,  risks them caring every flue or cold bug that gets thrown into our body, our immune system kicks in high gear and starts to fight off everything it sees foreign. 


Keep in mind, people with MS already have weakened immune systems.  In time my body does start to show many MS symptoms do to its activation and fight within. For myself I see this will continue until the "flue or cold bug" becomes full strength. Usually it also takes my MS symptoms away after the illness is taken its full course.

MS symptoms are; nausea  fatigue,  vertigo, brain fog, possibly causing inflammation and extreme pain. Sadly, it often triggers a relapse, or as some call it, an MS Episode. This can last from 3 days to several weeks or even months.

Sometimes these attacks on our bodies do return back to all regular functions.  Reality is each time we experience these flare ups, we risk loosing any one of them, that I have mentioned. Even the most scariest potential loss for me is; the chance of loosing my site and ability to walk. Not a fun time wondering if a bodily function that has been lost, will again return.

I always try to up my vitamin supplements intake; eat a neutrally denced diet along with regular activity to help counteract and assist in my health and well being.  Doing so also helps me bounce back faster from these ill times more so then if I don't follow this routine. In addition, I also find, keeping close to home and little contact with high risk of germ carriers helps too. I make a habit to I remove my gloves and wash my hands upon returning home when I am out.  This way, I can continue to enjoy outside activities keeping my health in check. 

I enjoy walking the most.  I get my cardio, strength and endurance training all in one.  As, long as I listen to my body and don't over do it. I try my best to monitor my progress and slowly increase my activity. Taking recovery drinks, help me maintain the ability to enjoy my walks on a daily bases.  The recovery drink I take, I believe helps my leg muscles recover.  Just as body builders experience taking a recovery drink after a workout.  It is one of my life savers in my plan to stay active.

Like stress, over doing it, can set me back. Flaring up debilitating symptoms within 3 days after the event. I also find if I stop my regular routine activity of walking any distances for anymore then a 3 day streak, I have to start back at the beginning. It can be quite a juggling act. 


Yes remaining active and healthy like, living with MS, can feel and sound like quite a complex process. For me the achievement pays off. The enjoyment of being outdoors, enjoy the weather of fall, and keeping my ability to walk on my own. I also get so many other benefits from my achievements. Weight loss and tone, feeling happier, calm, clarity and feel more confident. Not to forget the quicker recoveries of MS attacks.  


Backing my belief that, I am in control of my disease and it doesn't have control over me.

I have to live with Multiple Sclerosis and I can't fight it.  It isn't going away.....just I always know it's within, waiting for a chance to brake free. I have been thankful for the fall season, as it really does allow me to take control of this monster, giving better chances to live a fun fulfilling, active and healthy winter season. 

How do you like the season of autumn and does it affect you and your health?

Wishing you well, as always.....

MS and Living Life.

Can Infections Cause a MS Relapse?

After searching the internet it took me a very long time to answer this question.

Can Infections trigger a MS relapse?

So, I made a short video in hopes it will help others get this answer more quickly!



Please feel free on commenting! Your input is greatly appreciated!!



Love Sherry

~ MS and Living Life ❤

Soon a good bye to 2014

WOW! I can't believe it’s been almost a year since my last post! Seems to be the way it goes! Summer months are the hardest on me.  This past year (2014), has really dragged on.  I have really been fighting to keep my Monster In His Box!  It really has been a constant struggle.

As I type  I am thinking about the year that has past. I have found new ways to look at living my life. I have a new attitude maybe learned from the books I have read as well as my daily life’s struggles.  Reminiscing over this past year, brings thoughts of the people that have passed, those who have came back into my life, as well as those that are new aquittances, making my year better and hopeful in looking at the new year that approaches. Hoping to put the new learned things into action.

Although I have experienced medium exasperations and fatigue, off and on thought out this time, I have still got a good report from my Nero regarding my MS.  I have the plans of starting a new approach to my eating.  A Dr Terry Wahls has finally published her Wahls Protocol Book this year in USA, soon to be released in Canada.  I however not only have purchased and downloaded a copy from IBook but also ITunes so I can lesson to the audio version. This is very exciting for me as it promotes a new way of healthy eating, Polio style and active living. The only concern is its wheat, sugar and dairy free.  I have done the sugar and gluten free years before I was diagnosed but the thought of giving up Milk and Cheese.  Now that, I will be a challenge!

Now to you as my reader, I do plan to share more of this journey through out this year.  I have tried to rearrange things to hope share what works for me.

I am on a roll! Workout Check In

Day 3; Think I am on a roll here with my Winter T25, P90X3 Challenge to better health! 

Well I must say today I was pumped to press play, impressed that both Focus T25 & P90X3 actually worked together today on our calendar ! T25 being Total Body Circuit, being cardio and P90X3 was X3Yoga. 

Being the first time I did Focus T25 Total Body Circuit, I think I did fairly well. I struggled to keep up with the modifier, although I pushed myself, and thought Shaun T was tying to give me a heart-attack! Looking at my Hart rate monitor and knowing how I was feeling, I am thinking I may need new batteries in this technology gadget !  It was tough! I had to stop a couple times to pull myself together as I thought I was going to puke. LOL 

I am thinking maybe I had too much in my stomach to do a workout?  I had a cup of Green Tea when I got up followed my 1/2 of a banana with my P90XE&E ( Energy and Endurance). Or maybe I just pushed myself too hard? But,, when I to came to doing my P90X3, X3Yoga I was looking forward to it.

This being he second time in doing the X3Yoga, I was ready for the moves and it did make it easier to move on to the next pose with Tony Horton. I feel he has really done a great job with this program so far.  I am impressed with how he keeps me going and moving even by modifying. Normally in the past doing Yoga was a problem for my MS.  I find Tony doesn't stay to long in one pose without moving on to another. Which is great for me, as I feel, I don't over stretch my muscles and I haven't gotten spasticity in either times I have done this Yoga Workout. Any other time I have tried Yoga my muscles throughout my body shake uncontrollably.

In general, I feel I did pretty good today.  On top of it all, I burned 434 calories within my workouts today! Yay me! 

A MS Cure?

I have gotten to believe there is only treatments for MS, not cures.  As of yet! I did find this video very informative and positive.  They figure that do have a treatment that may work to remove those symptoms that we suffer from.  These symptoms do happen with those of us with MS.  However their frequency very from person to person.  I really suggest watching this video not only to understand what MS Multiple Sclerosis  is but to see how far they have come to understand this disease.  I believe we are closer to the cure.

MS Cure? Click here

Does your life depend on it?

Today having more energy then I have had in sometime and am so excited.  I feel my Fatigue Management approach is actually starting to over power this Monster. I always get disappointed when I know I'm loosing my battle and my physical/mental abilities has been compromised and fatigue has set in. In knowing the difficult climb I am in for to regain my stamina and strength.

I love this motivational picture.  As I do believe; "My Life Depends On staying active."  Within the last 3 years of this chronic illness I am finding summer feeds this monster and slowly Creeps out from his box.  This last two years I find by pushing myself with slow intervals of physical activity helps me gain control of this illness with on and off battles throughout the seasons. But with each time, it seems not only to be harder physically but quicker to regain myself.

Starting to become active, is a challenge for the average person but even more so when you have the MSMonster fighting against you along the way.  

What it is like to fight MS? 
My battle with it as I call it; "My Monster in the Box! "

Visualize a big hairy monster (Giant like, like in the movies). Now visualize yourself, wrestling that huge strong beast and trying to place him in a steel cage or box....by yourself.  With thing but your own body and strength. 

That is my experience and struggle with this beast within,  adding this over powering fatigue that over whelms those of us with MS. 

I fight this monster with exercise and a plant basted diet. I start with walking and work my way up to more challenging activities. I do push myself to exercise just like the fitness gruo' out there. However, that monster knocks be down when I have pushed my body to far.  He then show’s himself setting me back, sometimes back to the start. 

I believe that I am doing this for My Life Depends On It. To fight back and stay active. My quality of life.  I refuse to use a wheel chair and pray that I will never have to…. But if I do, you can bet, I will be fighting to get out of that thing and walk again.

How low pressure can affects MS

Today maybe a trying day for me,  as it is for others. I tell myself; "I have been given this challenge to show others, how to live and grow, battling this monster, that so many don't understand." I believe having a positive mental attitude is an important key to live a positive fulfilling life no matter what your challenge is.

Today the weather lows are playing upon my head, with not only pressure but, the feeling a tingling sensation across the top of my brain, that seems to toggle off and on where-ever and whenever. 

Yes , it tingles while I get the feeling of my hair lifting as it moves around. Adding a swirling motion to my balance just makes it more entertaining for the moment and makes me thankful for my time I have being healthy and without this presence. 

However, when days like these arrive, like an unexpected unwanted guest, I try to live my life making things seem normal, as it once was. By pushing myself to complete the simplest things around the home and keeping a positive attitude, I believe is not just an example for my family as well as those others me, that there is always a good side to every experience.  I find and not only be challenging but the way I see it, I need to look at what I can do, not what I can't. I know it is just for a while and tomorrow will bring a new day with new beginnings.

I try to live my life making things seem normal, as it once was, by pushing myself to complete the simplest things around the home. I don't want pity or others to feel sorry,or bad for me because my family and I Live with me having MS I just want people aware that things don't aways seem as wonderful as the look and appear. I hope this blog will help others understand more about those living with Multiple  Sclerosis (MS).

I do believe that we attract, what we think.  So think positive and believe things will only get better.  Be thankful for what you have and can do today! I am thankful for all the good in my life!