In 1992, Tustin resident Shirley Cero was diagnosed with MS. After experiencing weakness in her right leg, loss of balance and the drag of her right foot, it was a business trip to New Orleans where Shirley proceeded to experience a major exacerbation. After Shirley returned to Tustin, a doctor suggested a few diagnoses: a stroke, a tumor, or MS. After further tests, Shirley was diagnosed with MS.
Shirley has been able to call on the local MS society for their support. In particular, Shirley is involved with a support group and volunteers at the chapter. “After going out on disability I found myself having the time and the energy to re-acquaint myself with the MS Society and once again get involved. I have found many of the courses offered to be very helpful both emotionally and physically. Since I require a caregiver and have a mortgage I'm very appreciative of the scholarship money used for those of us who need it from time to time. This is just one of the many things our local chapters do for us.”
“I moved right along with progression of the illness, using a cane in 1997, a walker in 1999 and am currently in a power chair. In March of 2001, I had a Baclofen Pump inserted surgically to reduce the severe spasticity I suffered throughout my entire body. I was very fortunate that AACN put an office in my home which let me work full time until the end of 2001.”
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, Shirley, chapter programs and services, fundraising events, sponsorship/underwriting chapter activities, or to donate, email stories@MSpacific.org, visit www.MSpacific.org or call 1-800-486-6762.
Written by volunteer Leslie Christofferson