In her 20’s, Oceanside resident Lee Bulfin began experiencing strange symptoms. It was the mid-1970's, and Lee was given a variety of possible reasons to explain the numbness in her hands and feet, the clumsiness and balance problems. None of the reasons was accurate – and they all made her feel that in some measure she was responsible: improper diet, not enough exercise, not a positive-enough attitude, etc. Over the next 10 years Lee saw many neurologists and orthopedists, until one doctor finally recognized the symptoms and suggested a selection of previously unavailable tests that would finally diagnose Lee with multiple sclerosis in 1991.
Lee began a journey of understanding MS, educating herself through the Society’s website – which was new at that time. She brought her two teenage daughters with her to Society lectures and programs to help learn and "gain acceptance of what might be in our future. We have all made changes in our lives, but we have not missed out on any of life's pleasures - graduations, travel, weddings, family reunions and more.”
Lee's ongoing symptoms include fatigue and difficulty walking; she often uses a scooter to get around outside her home. Lee speaks about the chapter as a way to get out and discover what is available to help people with MS. After retiring, Lee began volunteering her time, twice a week, to the chapter. She helps the office staff prepare for upcoming fundraising events and programs. She participates in chapter-sponsored aqua exercise programs. Lee is also team captain of Walk MS team Pacific South Coasters, which she began in 2008 with 43 members. The team includes a mix of chapter staff members, people living with MS and their families. "There are thousands of us in the area who are living with MS, and we are in the best position to motivate others to support the National MS Society: the vital programs and services they offer locally and the important research they fund nationally and internationally."
Though the cause of multiple sclerosis is not known, it is a disease of the central nervous system typically diagnosed in the prime-of-life years, ages 20-50. At least two to three times more women than men are living with MS, the most common neurological disease leading to disability in young adults. To learn more about MS, Lee, chapter programs and services, fundraising events, sponsorship/underwriting chapter activities, or to donate, email Heather.Cavazos@MSpacific.org, visit www.MSpacific.org or call 1-800-486-6762.