Meet Natasha
Diagnosed in: Oct. 15, 2007
What makes me strong: My positive attitude. The day that I was diagnosed I promised myself that I would keep my chin up and go at this head on. I have a wonderful circle of support. My fiancé Phil has been my rock, when he sees that I am getting frustrated he keeps me focused. I look at this as “it is what it is” I can’t change anything about my diagnosis, but I can change the way I view it. Keeping an upbeat positive attitude, even when the going gets tough, makes all the difference in the world!
I enjoy being a woman because: The thought of one day becoming a mother is more exciting than I can put into words. I have always dreamed of one day becoming a wife and a mother. I am one step closer to becoming a wife, I am getting married October 24, 2009. Yay!
What my joys in life are: My family! I can’t go a day without talking to my mom and sister, they are my best friends. And I have always been a daddy’s girl at heart. I love vacations with Phil, and even better are Sunday afternoons on the couch watching football. It is a guaranteed nap for me!!
What my fears are: My biggest fear is that one day I could be completely disabled. I am very independent, so the thought of not having that is very scary to me.
What makes me unique: My quirky sense of humor. I am a complete goofball. I have learned to shrug things off and not worry about things that I have no control of. I just roll with the punches and take one day at a time. Laughter truly is the best medicine.
MS has taught me: To slow down, take one day at a time.
One piece of advice that I would give to someone newly diagnosed with MS is: Research, research, research! You are your biggest advocate. Listen to your body, if it is telling you to take a break, take a break. Network with others who have MS, sometimes it is nice to talk to somebody who can directly relate to you. Keep a positive attitude!