Read about others who are moving us closer to a world free of MS
Every person touched by MS has a unique and powerful story — whether you are a person living with multiple sclerosis, a family member, a friend, or a volunteer or the cause. Send us your story and read on:
"I can trace symptoms of my MS back to age 21. Due to the difficulty of identifying the disease, I was officially diagnosed on February 13, 2004 - a date I’ll never forget.
Initially, my husband’s job had good health insurance, but he lost his position at the plant in town. We made $10 too much to get on Medicaid or food stamps. My first relapses included severe numbness in my legs, which is now happening in my hands as well. I’m 100% disabled, but was proud to finally graduate college in December 2007.
After Kirk lost his job, we worked hard to make ends meet. I ended up stretching medications to cover more time - sometimes going three or four months without taking anything because it was too expensive. I know I’m one of the lucky ones on Medicare now. But no one should have to go through what we did. Endless paperwork, constant and repeated explanations of my disease, humiliation at being questioned about my claim - all the while hearing from doctors that stress exacerbates MS!
My diagnosis crushed my entire family, but we realized that multiple sclerosis is not a death sentence. However, its financial impact can do real damage to a family. Medicare can help, but getting on it is a hard and time-consuming process. On behalf of me and my family, please do away with the Medicare wait."