Life with MS
By Allyce Morino
A diagnosis with MS can rattle even the most positive individual to the core. Audrey, who always considered herself to be a positive person, was devastated when she was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS in 2005. However, Audrey got back on track with the help of the MS Society while finding the time to give back to those in need.
After her diagnosis, Audrey stayed connected with her medical team and began educating herself about MS. Having discontinued working two years after her diagnosis due to intense fatigue and nerve pain, Audrey found volunteer opportunities within her local chapter in Atlanta, GA, where she partook in fundraising, office support and answering phone calls from new clients. Audrey also started an MS Self-Help Group at her local hospital, Grady Memorial, for those in need of MS information.
Audrey continued partnering with the MS Society after moving to Berkeley. She visits the local YMCA four days a week on a special grant provided by the Northern California Chapter. Audrey stays active through swimming, cardio, and light weights. Audrey is a true example of someone who can turn an overwhelming situation into an optimistic one that gives back to the community in more ways than one.