Frank is second from right, wearing a straw hat
When 32-year-old Frank Austin’s 20/20 vision deteriorated suddenly, doctors could not pinpoint a reason.
“I went on with life, and my vision almost returned to normal. But, as time passed, I began to notice other issues. Like when I wrote, my pencil would jump slightly out of control,” remembers Frank. Frank and his wife, Corinne, golfed often, and over the years, walking the course became a struggle. When friends began to notice a limp in his gait, Frank, then 48, consulted a neurologist. “As the neurologist pointed out the lesions on my brain shown by the MRI, I was in shock. What I knew about multiple sclerosis was limited. I didn't know what to expect.”
Over the years, Frank has utilized the chapter’s self-help groups, equipment loan and other resources. “I attend all the research symposiums and have relied on the Society as my source for news and developments in MS research and clinical trials,” says Frank. Three years after his diagnosis, Frank experienced an episode of extreme fatigue and partial paralysis, leading his early retirement. “Now I get up every morning and make my wife's breakfast. I do the laundry. It is not managing a field service organization, but it is a purpose! I'm thankful to have the soul mate that I have.”
Frank is an active member of the chapter’s Government Relations Committee, an Angel Visitor and leader of a self-help group called “Man to Man.” Additionally, each October, Frank is an MS Champion for Bike MS team Mitsubishi Motors (read more about Frank and Team Mitsubishi Motors). He fundraises as a Virtual Rider and shares his thoughts and ideas to help connect team members with the mission, which helps to “bridge the gap between the fundraising effort and awareness of the consequences of an MS diagnosis.” Frank continues, “I bring a level of understanding to members of the team – an understanding that people can thrive in spite of MS.”
Dependent on a cane, Frank occasionally uses a walker and frequently relies on a wheelchair when traveling or to delay fatigue. Frank no longer drives because his right leg is “just along for the ride” and he cannot move his foot from the accelerator to the brake. “I accept the lifestyle changes that come with MS. I accept the fact that tomorrow may be different, that I might not be able to perform as well physically as I did yesterday; that I might need a little help along the way.”
Frank and Corinne (aka Corky) live in Tustin and have been married for more than 25 years. They have three grown children (all moved out), a dog, three cats and a parrot. Frank concludes, “Corinne and all of the kids have been unconditionally supportive. What more can I ask for?”
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. MS is the most common neurological disease leading to disability in young adults. To learn more about MS, Frank, 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.