Meet Shannon
Diagnosed in: December 2004 (three days before Christmas — Thanks Santa.)
What makes me strong: When I finally heard the words, “You have MS,” I almost laughed and cried at the same time. I instantly remembered the moment as I child when I thought to myself, “Multiple sclerosis? I hope I never have such a funny sounding disease,” during a conversation about a family friend who has MS. I realized I’d come full circle in my experience with the disease. I wasn’t only a volunteer for the cause, I’d now become a part of the cause.
My strength stems from knowing others (with MS and without) are fighting for a cure. I am not alone. My inner strength stems from creating alternate meanings for MS. Mysterious Situation is the first one I coined. My new favorite is Maximum Stubbornness — the absolute refusal to give in or give up. I can and I will live a long and healthy life because I believe I will … and in the quiet moments when I doubt, I find my strength again in my family and friends who believe in me.
I enjoy being a woman because: I have never contemplated why I am a woman or what I like about being one. I just AM a woman and I enjoy the social benefits of being female. There is a special bond between mother and daughter, sisters and girlfriends that is uniquely female. I am in awe of the miracle of birth and look forward to being pregnant and bringing a child into this world.
What my joys in life are: My family, boyfriend, dog and friends are my greatest sources of happiness. The shared experiences, feelings and memories I have with them are my most valuable possessions. Music, photography and reading also bring me much joy and contentment. I am at my happiest when I’m pushing myself physically, whether in the gym, during an MS Walk or on one of my “Grand Adventures.” I love to travel and I am always planning my next getaway.
What my fears are: I fear becoming severely disabled and losing my autonomy. My independence is important to me and I fear depending on someone to take care of me. I am also very afraid of losing my eyesight. I had optic neuritis for about three months when I was first diagnosed and have had several brief episodes since that time. As long as I have my sight I feel in control of body and surroundings.
What makes me unique: I believe it’s the whole of our personal thoughts and experiences that makes us different from one another. I am the only young woman I know with MS who has walked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and plans to one day summit Mt. Kilimanjaro. I envision myself stomping out MS with every step I take. I’ve been called an inspiration, and that actually makes me a bit uncomfortable because I didn’t set out to be inspiring. I have a simple goal: live a full life. If something is a challenge, I will find a way to overcome it.
MS has taught me: Life is unpredictable. Control is an illusion, especially when dealing with MS. I can only control my attitude when facing an uncertain future with this disease. I choose to see myself winning the fight over MS, not just living with it. I’ve learned the importance of living my dreams today instead of waiting for ”someday.”
One piece of advice that I would give to someone newly diagnosed with MS is: Get INVOLVED! Being involved with MS Society events and activities has greatly shaped my outlook on living a good life in spite of MS. Walk MS and Bike MS have introduced me to some incredible people and have all been very emotional for me. Meeting the chapter staff and other people fighting this disease has inspired me to speak out about my experience, to educate and advocate for a cure. And most important, BELIEVE a cure will be found!