Kirk Turner, diagnosed in 2005
What do you remember most from the day you were diagnosed?
I was scared and mad. I didn’t know much about MS and the only people I knew with MS were famous people with MS like Richard Pryor and Montel Williams.
What have you learned from living with MS?
I’ve learned there’s a spectrum of MS. I’m working on dealing with MS and knowing it’s gonna be a part of me for the rest of my life. My ability to be able to speak to people about my experience has helped me to not be mad anymore. I’m upset but I won’t let it get the best of me. You never know what prize you’re gonna get in this lottery of MS. It could be worse for me and I think it’s a real blessing that it’s not.
What advice do you have for someone newly diagnosed?
First - I know you’re mad and confused but it’s important to stay active, exercise and find a healthy diet. Also, try to stay positive. Find out as much as you can about MS. Remember it’s ok to be scared. Stay strong and don’t seclude yourself.
What are you doing to move us closer to a world free of MS?
I speak to other people with and without MS. I have a Walk MS team, Uncle Muff’s Doughmakers, and this will be the second year I’m doing the walk. I also volunteer at the State Fair and educate people by sharing my story.
What do you enjoy most about being involved in the MS movement?
Touching people’s lives by reaching out and sharing my story. Also, visiting with my MS friends at the MS Achievement Center is important to me.