Faces of MS 
Flora Sharing Her Story To Make a Difference
Written By Ann Farrell, National MS Society Volunteer & Event Participant
Flora was first diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, but her neurologist also tested her for MS. When she was told in February 2007 that she did indeed have the disease, it was an emotional time for her. She was fairly young and her future was full of unknowns.
Flora’s neurologist’s office referred her to the local MS Society for information and support. She discovered her employer was a sponsor of the 2007Walk MS Event, so right away she decided to get involved. The walk led to her association with the Bike MS Ride, where she was a Power Partner to two ride participants. As a Power Partner, Flora was able to communicate with and help motivate bikers, giving them a personal connection with MS. “I loved it. I kept in touch by sending them e-mails and cards. I think it inspired them it puts more of a face to it. Maybe if they can think a little bit more about the disease, they will contribute more,” she states.
The MS Society offered another program that Flora participated in with her then partner. It was a couple seminars that she felt was an “inspirational” event that couples with MS should consider attending. The presenter, Len Chatman, wrote the book Art of Living with Multiple Sclerosis. “I liked getting to meet people who care about people who have disabilities,” she mentions.
Even though fatigue and heat can wear on Flora physically, she tries to make the best of her situation. She says she has learned that “life is short, and there are more important things in life to worry about. I’m paying attention more to the simple things and trying to appreciate them.” Flora also realized what a supportive group of friends and family she has. She is thankful for them and feels that her daily success with this unpredictable disease is guided by their faith in her strength. She hopes to be an inspiration to someone one day and plans on continuing to share her story to help bring awareness.
After a camping trip late last summer, Flora thought the numbness in her arm was a result of sleeping awkwardly on the hard ground. But when the tingly feeling spread throughout her other limbs over the next few months, she knew she needed to see her doctor.