In 1999, during a routine physical, 35-year-old Leslie mentioned to her physician that at times her right foot would drag when she walked. Over the next few weeks, Leslie saw many doctors and underwent many tests, including two MRI’s and a spinal tap. Then the diagnosis… multiple sclerosis. Fear and panic accompanied shock as Leslie began to cope with this unexpected new challenge.
Between the literature and the internet – Leslie was overwhelmed by the information and the possibilities. “I could wake up blind tomorrow and it could last for an hour or forever! Or not be able to walk! Or work! Or clean house! Well, maybe that would be okay.” Leslie soon realized that those possibilities exist for everyone and became aware that, despite the challenges, she has quite a few blessings to be grateful for as well. “We each just need to do the best we can with what we have.”
For several years, Leslie’s MS symptoms fell in the “mildly annoying” category. “Occasionally, I experience unsettling episodes where I either feel as though I am encased in a lead wetsuit with magnets pulling me to the floor or that I’m trying to walk in a kids’ jumping house (with varying numbers of kids jumping!)”
In 2008, Leslie’s symptom of ‘fatigue’ gained new meaning. Leslie describes it as “a water bottle, half full with a slow leak. If I’m not careful, all my energy drains out, sometimes quite suddenly, and I MUST lie down. I can’t hold myself upright.” Leslie has learned to manage this new challenge with medication and frequent breaks. On weekends when she’s up to it, Leslie does a Pilates DVD at home, however she strives for balance, “I have a sort of ‘hangover’ for several days if I over-do it.” Leslie values the literature about MS produced by the Society and has joined chapter-hosted online seminars and conference calls. She continues, “It’s reassuring to know the programs exist if and when I need them.”
Leslie is learning to lean on her friends, family and neighbors, “If I need something like my grocery shopping done for me, I ask. This actually takes quite a bit of effort on my part as I am perhaps overly fond of my independence. But I’m learning.”
Leslie sees her diagnosis as an opportunity to focus her energy on a cause. She fundraises as a Super Crew member (working rather than walking) for the three-day, 50-mile Challenge Walk each year, and also fundraises for Walk MS annually (since 2000!). Involvement with the chapter makes Leslie feel “Purposeful. Like an active participant in trying to do something about MS. And the camaraderie is awesome. It’s nice to be around others who can relate.”
Leslie remains excited about life and rises to the challenges her MS presents on a daily basis. She readily refers to her blessings and gratitude and remains grounded in the positives all around her. “I’ve been blessed to be able to make some adaptations enabling me to remain working full-time (though now from home), and raise funds for the Society.”
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, Leslie, 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.
Written by volunteer Alyssa Brown