Karen Cooper first noticed symptoms of one-sided weakness in 1983, at the age of 41. The diagnosis of MS was made about a year later. Her MS presented itself only on the left side. At first, it didn't affect Karen’s career as a Postal Clerk. She continued working for the U.S. Postal Service for ten more years. “I fought hard to keep my job,” Karen recalls, “but the stress began to impact the disease and I had no choice but to retire in 1994.”
“It was hard on my family because of the uncertainty of this disease. Also, my ability to always be there changed as the disease progressed,” Karen shares. “There are daily frustrations but there are also daily rewards. Key to dealing with this very unique and very individualized disease is keeping a positive attitude—thinking about what you can do, not dwelling on what you can’t do. I get very excited when I figure out how to do something with one hand that typically takes two hands.”
Karen has found ways to maintain her mobility as the disease progressed. Over several years, Karen went from walking with a slight limp to walking with a cane to walking with a four-pronged cane. Through the MS Society’s equipment loan program she obtained a manual wheelchair to use for long distances. More recently, Karen uses a power chair, which allows more freedom and control over her mobility. The MS Society provided a loaner van when Karen’s van was being serviced or repaired.
Karen developed a passion for educating the public about issues affecting people living with disabilities. She successfully advocated for additional handicap parking spaces where more were needed.
The MS Society provided many informational seminars that Karen found beneficial, and Karen has participated in the Society’s water exercise program for over 15 years. She reports, “These programs have lessened the negative impact MS could have on my daily life. The physical and emotional well-being provided by the water exercise program is invaluable.” Participating in the Fitness Clinic for individuals with disabilities at San Diego State University has also helped Karen improve her strength, stamina and balance.
In 1997, Karen helped establish Team Water Walkers for the MS Walk. They put on their own aquatic event, and have continued to maintain their Team for 13 years. As a Champion, Karen has also volunteered at the Carlsbad and San Diego MS Walks and at the MS Bike Ride. “These fundraising events are very important— not only for the money raised to support vital programs, but also to promote awareness and educate the public about MS.”
Written by volunteer writer Elaine Chen