Perseverance = Real Heros: 173 stories

FRANCINE...OUR MySpace FRIEND FROM THE PHILLIPINES

2006-11-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Stan... =)

My name is Francine Drilon and I’m a 32 year old kindergarten teacher In 2003, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I want to thank you profusely, for allowing me to join this group. I’m from the Philippines and we don’t have a lot of information about MS in my country. Whatever I’ve learned about MS, I’ve gotten from my doctors and the internet. As far as I know, we only have one MS support group. I’ve called them twice, and I was told that this small group meets once a month to socialize. There is no information dissemination of any kind, no networking or actual “support”.

I look forward to reading the blogs and articles even though most, if not all, the (new) medication and therapies (sometimes discussed), are not available here.

My battle with MS started with a sore pain in my wrists. I thought it was because I was spending too much time on the computer. The pain didn’t improve and I was beginning to worry. I thought it was Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. After a few days, I started experiencing the same pain on both feet. I was beginning to limp and that’s when I knew I needed to see a doctor. I went to Saint Luke’s Medical Center. After a few minutes of the usual Q&A with the doctor, she said I needed to see a neurologist. I thought, “What?!?! A neuro?! Isn’t that a brain doctor??! I need a brain doctor for sore wrists and a limp?! What’s going on?!” I made an appointment with the neuro and saw him the next day. He asked me more questions and gave me a long list of tests I needed to go through. He said he would wait for the results the same afternoon, and then decide whether I needed to be confined. I said to myself, “Ok, let’s do the bloody tests and get this over with!” I was in pain and the pins and needles sensation was beginning to advance towards my legs.

The tests consisted of needle poking and what seemed like electric shock treatment! It was agonizing. I have a high tolerance for pain, but this was almost unbearable. I was OK with the whole idea of having needles injected all over my body, but I couldn’t bear the doctor’s hand on my skin. The slightest touch felt like I was being burned alive. There came a point when they needed to insert needles in my spine, but they hesitated because they knew I would shudder as soon as the doctors touched me. They said they had no choice but to attempt to insert the needle without touching any part of my skin. “Attempt?!” I, of course, dreaded the thought that they would miss and leave me a veggie. Needless to say, I survived that ordeal. The tests were over, but I was still in pain... After half an hour from the last needle poking, the doctor said I couldn’t go home yet. “Oh brother! What now?!?!” I had to be confined and more tests followed. The pain was up to my chest in a matter of hours. I got progressively worse. My hands and arms... my feet...legs... chest... and neck, all hurt like *#&$@#! I had difficulty breathing. It felt like I had a belt tightly wrapped around my chest. I couldn’t move from the neck down! Several neurologists and neuro-surgeons came to see me. They said I had a demyelinating disease. I asked them to pretend that I was a 5 year old and explain to me what exactly that meant. I was told that the myelin sheaths of my nerves were depleting. ”Hmm... How did that happen?” I had to undergo 3 MRI scans and more tests. I couldn’t walk. I couldn’t write or eat on my own. They said that I was hypersensitive, which explained why I physically ached when people spoke louder than a whisper. I ached when the lights were on. I was sensitive to touch, sight, and sound. “Wow! I had super powers!” If I didn’t experience pain, I could be related to superman!

After being hospitalized, a lot of steroids and a dozen other meds, I was finally released. Now I had to get Physical and Occupational therapy! I had to learn how to walk again. I had to learn how to write, feed myself, button my shirt, comb my hair, and do all the basic everyday functions I took for granted. They said I had to desensitize my nerves. I had to retrain my brain and convince it that all these actions were not harmful... not painful. My therapist would say, “Tell your brain... to tell your arm... to tell your hand ... to move this marble.” There was a moment when I thought, “Didn’t I see this in the movie Lorenzo’s Oil?!?!”

They made me dip my hands in warm paraffin wax, move items from one tray to another, practice with a pen, a spoon, a comb... They even made me dip my hands in a pail full of sand. They hid tiny objects in the sand and then showed me pictures of each object they wanted me to find (using my hands). I must tell you that that was difficult and excruciatingly painful. I cried because of the pain. I cried because I couldn’t believe that looking for a small car in a bucket of sand would be so hard. I felt so useless and helpless.

I had to stop working for six months and focus on getting better. I felt dizzy and weak. I experienced chronic fatigue. I had to sit on a chair in the shower while my mom bathed me. I couldn’t even shampoo my own hair! I needed a wheelchair, so working or going out with friends were totally out of the question. I stayed home, went to the hospital, and went back home. I suffered from insomnia. I couldn’t sleep and I stayed up till six or seven in the morning. I was hurting, frustrated, lonely, bored, angry, and depressed. The doctor told me early on, that there is such a thing as MS depression. They said it is due to the “unpredictability of the disease.“ I thought maybe, compared to cancer, with which we are more familiar with the stages and what to expect, MS is far different. We can be OK today... and then totally helpless tomorrow.

As soon as I started walking on my own, thanks to the steroids, I went back to work. Still feeling the pins and needles, still feeling weak and sore, I was determined to go back to my job and my students. Since there are no visual symptoms of MS, it was difficult to explain to people what I was going through. I was sick of answering the same questions about what was going on with me. I was tired of hearing, “Really? But you don’t look sick.” I wanted to say, “Do I need to lose my hair? Lose an eye? Lose weight? Gain weight? Sever an artery perhaps? ... just so you believe that I’m suffering from a progressive disease?” But I always ended up saying, “Well, what you see and how I feel are two different things.”

I worked from October till March of 2003. I suffered another attack come April, and then I was back in the hospital. Three more MRI scans and a couple of second opinions later, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. They found lesions in my spinal cord. The doctors said that I should not take it lightly. “There is no known cure for MS”, he said. “The medication is given to address the symptoms, nothing more.” I took medicine for pain, nausea, insomnia, and even meds for epilepsy. My doctors suggested that I quit my job and consider a change of lifestyle. I needed to avoid stress. And since I live in a tropical country, the heat exacerbated my condition. They told me that I should consider moving to a colder part of the Philippines or another country.

As much as I wanted to give everything up... I could not. I told my doctor I couldn’t quit my job because I had no way of paying his doctor’s fee! I wouldn’t be able to buy my medication or pay for my other bills. “God! I would love to focus on myself for a change... but I can’t do that right now.” I did not have medical insurance, and it seemed as though I could only file for disability benefits with Social Security if I lost my head! We don’t get disability benefits that easily here. As long as you can stand, walk, BREATHE... you don’t get anything! I really had no other options but to teach again .

It is now 2006... And yes, you guessed it, I’m back to work. I teach 2 major subjects and 3 minor ones. At this point, I'm taking neuropathic anti-convulsants and morphine every 4 hours. I also take medication for my nausea and really strong sleeping pills prescribed to patients with Schizophrenia. I could be a stock holder of our local drug store! Hahaha! My neurologist and Pain Management doctor still suggest that I stop teaching and finally move to a colder climate or maybe look into a program for MS patients in the States. The heat weakens me and dealing with the pain and chronic fatigue is difficult. I'm still trying to improve my penmanship, but my walking has greatly improved. Each day can be agonizing. In fact, typing this letter is making my fingers sore. But, it’s nothing I can’t handle. I will not be defeated by this. I refuse to give up on living my life the best way I know how.

My father taught me, that in life, it is essential to make peace with one’s pain. I agree with my dad. I have made peace with the physical and emotional pain MS has given me. After reflecting on my own mortality, I have found many things to smile about each day. I find joy in seeing my friends every single week. I embrace each time they come to visit me for coffee laced with meaningful conversation. I treasure DVD marathons with my mom... and singing with my dad... or receiving little notes from my students. I value my alone time, which is when I can read about Gustav Klimt... watch the moon rise... paint pictures... listen to cello music or India Arie. I look forward to corny television shows and even pathetic ones! I can’t wait to take long baths... wash my hair... and button my shirt (even if it’s painful and tiring)... I get excited when I teach my Reading class. I get even more excited when I start preparing elaborate lessons about Henri Matisse for my Art class! I’m in pain... but I’m alive!

I have basic medical insurance now. Unfortunately, it doesn’t cover any of my medication or major medical exams. It only offers free hospitalization, if and when I need it. It doesn’t even pay for my visits to the doctor. I still have no disability benefits from the government. I still suffer from fatigue everyday, especially when it’s hot. I still feel the pain in my entire body. I get nauseated easily. My vision is getting hazy. My short term memory is starting to fail me. I still have those involuntary twitches which causes my hand to launch my spoon or pen into outer space! I still can’t sleep. It’s three in the morning now. But despite all of these and more, I continue to EMBRACE LIFE. I want to be the best daughter, friend, teacher, girlfriend.......and LOVE LIFE AS MUCH AS I CAN, FOR AS LONG AS I CAN.

After all, having this disease is NOT A DEATH SENTENCE... It’s simply LIFE MODIFIED. Thank you again, for letting me join your MySpace group. You have no idea how much you have helped me.

God’s choicest blessings to you... today and always... – Francine

2006-11-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Trauma Center Nurse Kim Womack
“My diagnosis 4 years ago has to catch up with me,” she says. “I have MS. I’m not disabled. I’m intelligent and upbeat and by the way, I have MS.”

2006-11-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

Richard Cohen explained he discovered a trend that became a power influence in his life: People afflicted with MS want to talk to people in the same boat..."The Waterbury Connecticut Newspaper"
Cohen, who wrote a best-selling book about his struggles with the disease, at home and at work, explained he discovered a trend that became a power influence in his life: People afflicted with MS want to talk to people in the same boat.

"It's positive reinforcement no matter where you look," said Canton resident Zimmerman, bracing herself with a wooden cane as women rolled by in wheelchairs. "We all have the same diagnosis, but we each have our own disease."..MORE: "The Waterbury Connecticut Newspaper".

2006-11-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

PERSEVERANCE: BREEDERS CUP WIN! McLaughlin on his battle with MS: "
'Well, I feel like I'm very lucky. I'm one of the lucky ones with MS . I'm able to keep going on a regular basis. I don't walk as well as I used to, but this is the best medication you could have, winning a $5
million race.

But MS has entered my life and I've handled it the best that I can. I'm lucky I have a great team of people with me and a support group in my wife and kids and family.'"....MORE:

2006-11-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

GREAT STORY OF PERSEVERANCE: Thousands Running In NYC Marathon Sunday...PLUS a woman known as the world's slowest marathoner
Competing alongside some of the world’s greatest athletes, such as former Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, will be a woman known as the world's slowest marathoner.

Koplowitz, who is afflicted with multiple sclerosis, has participated in 20 marathons, 18 of them in New York City.

Her projected finish time: about 28 hours.

Koplowitz intends to get a head start Sunday by beginning around 5 a.m., and she expects to finish between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Monday.
Friends and family will help her along the way as she walks the course.
Members of the New York City chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society are planning to greet Koplowitz at the finish line.... MORE ON WNBC

2006-11-08T08:36:00.000-08:00

Trey Fortner and Potter are part of Shannon Hoelzel’s strong support group as she fights multiple sclerosis with a positive attitude
PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Meeting one of life's big challenges
"At first Shannon Hoelzel just felt tired. Really tired. The kind of tired that doesn't go away, not even with eight hours of sleep. Next she started to get migraines and then her vision started to blur and double, even when she didn't have a headache.

Not knowing what was wrong or not being taken seriously when she knew something was wrong was even harder than hearing the diagnosis: multiple schlerosis.

Hoelzel, 27, who grew up in Plymouth and graduated from Armstrong High School, was diagnosed two years ago. When doctors gave her a MRI and found lesions indicative of MS, they followed with a spinal tap. Other possible illnesses, such as lupus, were ruled out, and doctors said her symptoms were indicative of MS. That day, Dec. 22, 2004, is etched in Hoelzel's memory.

"It is not really what I asked Santa for, but it was a relief," she said.

Now taking medications to help her deal with the illness, Hoelzel's naturally optimistic outlook is back in full force. She's working, and she's making plans to get the degree she didn't complete before, when fatigue sidelined her plans.

Hoelzel also is trying to lead others with MS into taking a positive approach to their illness and to take care of themselves.

"Every day is a new experience," she said. "Of course, I have my 'down' days. I find brownies and ice cream take care of them."

As a person with MS, Hoelzel needs to have an annual MRI. She also needs to keep stress down and make sure she gets enough rest.

"I'm blessed I don't have walking problems," she said. "Everybody has their burdens to bear, and everybody needs some support.

"I had to try so hard not to hold life by the throat. I had to realize the only thing I can control any more is my reaction and my perspective. I leave the rest to God."

When Hoelzel was diagnosed, she didn't know anyone her age with MS. That has changed.

"There's an instant connection," she said. "They understand what you're going through. They are people I wouldn't have met if I didn't have MS. Being able to represent them in the media is so great."

There are 400,000 diagnosed cases of MS in the U.S., and 7,500 in Minnesota and western Wisconsin alone, Hoelzel said.

Instead of sitting home feeling sorry for herself, Hoelzel believes in making plans for the future and setting goals for herself. Some goals are simply fun ones, such as hiking in the Grand Canyon this summer, and others involve life changes, such as going back to school.

"As my dad says, 'Whether you think you can or can't, you're right about it,'" she said. "Everybody has a burden. Nobody would know mine is MS."

Hoelzel is doing what she can to educate the public about MS, and she is working to raise funds to finance research that will some day lead to a cure for the elusive illness.
"

2006-11-07T10:03:00.000-08:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: CEO Rick Baldini will not let MS stop him....:
"...While the severity of the symptoms varies from person to person, Baldini said he has managed to stay almost symptom-free for the past six years with a combination of medication, acupuncture, massage therapy and yoga. He learned of the diagnosis in 2000, and at first experienced some numbness, tingling in his limbs and some loss of balance.

Baldini said yoga has been critical in regaining his balance, strength and agility and also credits a strong will and desire to overcome adversity in meeting the challenge of living with MS.

'A positive attitude,' Baldini said, 'there's no way to scientifically prove it, but I think it definitely helps.....'"

2006-11-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Shirley Armstrong overcomes MS to win blue ribbon
Shirley Armstrong of Rancho Bernardo shows off her winning watercolor, ‘Leo,’ which helped earn her a best of show honor at this year’s San Diego County Fair....

Shirley Patrick Anderson has multiple sclerosis, a neurological disorder that changed her life, put her in a wheelchair and almost robbed her of a cherished pastime — creating animals in watercolors.
Like others with MS, Anderson found a way to cope with the symptoms and move past them. After she lost the feeling in her right hand and arm, it looked like her ambition to become a better watercolorist was doomed.

But, she worked diligently to retrain herself to be a left-handed artist.

It was fairly frustrating to make that transition, but she eventually got the hang of it and now produces stunning, blue-ribbon art.

Winning “best in show” in the student division at the San Diego County Fair this year is turning out to be a personal testament to the ultimate goal of not giving up and moving past obstacles, Anderson said.
Her entry, a regal lion — resplendent in golden colors, some orange and browns — is aptly named “Leo,” a contribution her husband, Andy, helped provide.

The fair’s judges had no idea that Anderson is confined to a wheelchair with MS, said her art teacher Jenny Leeg. And that’s the way it should be: judge the art, not the artist.

“She didn’t win because she has MS,” Leeg said. “Her art was selected because it speaks for itself — and her ability.”

Art allows Anderson to release something of her inner self and show others her abilities, while she stretches beyond her physical limitations, Leeg said.

If nothing else, Anderson’s outgoing, positive personality is demonstrated in her brush strokes.

Leeg has observed the effect that Anderson has on her fellow art students during classes, which are hosted by Palomar College at Joslyn Senior Center in Rancho Bernardo.

“She’s inspirational to all of us,” Leeg said. “She’s always smiling and never seems to have a bad day.”

Leeg has been teaching that particular class for six years, five of which Anderson has been a student.

The camaraderie that has developed during class time, has expanded outside the center with students meeting for lunch and other social activities.

At least four students have become close friends with Anderson, sometimes volunteering to meet at her home to massage her legs so muscles will get the workout they need, she said.

2006-11-07T01:35:00.000-08:00

PERSEVERANCE=A Real Hero: Lauren Zaccaro...working on a NASA project:
"To look at her, you would never guess she has been drafted into a fierce battle for which no one would volunteer - a battle where health, well being and independence are at stake. Young, attractive, fit and a successful engineer, Lauren Zaccaro hardly fits the typical description of a woman living with chronic illness. The five-foot, seven-inch blonde looks more like a competitive athlete than someone battling daily the potentially debilitating effects of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Two years ago, while still enrolled at the University of Hartford, Zaccaro, now a systems engineer with Hamilton Sundstrand Space Systems, began experiencing difficulties with her vision. In the midst of finals she noticed an annoying spot in her right eye.

"I thought something had gotten on my contact," said the Ledyard, Conn. native who now lives in Colchester, Conn. "I went back to my dorm room, removed my contacts only to discover the blur spot was still there."

Zaccaro scheduled an appointment with her optometrist, who upon examination referred her to a neurologist. A series of tests, including a painful spinal tap, confirmed she had multiple sclerosis.

"Although initially I was somewhat shocked at the diagnosis, I'm thankful that I'm not facing something even worse," said Zaccaro, who is currently working on a NASA project to remove water and carbon dioxide from the air while maintaining proper cabin pressure and temperature for astronauts in space on a future space vehicle. "I feel fortunate. The effects of multiple sclerosis aren't keeping me from pursuing my dreams or keeping me from enjoying my favorite activities."

Despite symptoms that include ongoing vision problems, occasional leg and arm pain and some numbness and tingling in her extremities, Zaccaro, determined to fight back, signed up in the summer of 2005 to cycle in the National MS Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter Mohegan Sun MS Bike Tour - a two-day tour winding through southeastern Connecticut's breathtaking shoreline and blossom-covered countryside.

Zaccaro, who could have chosen to cycle as few as 50 miles over two days, successfully completed a 150-mile route. If that wasn't enough of a feat, particularly for someone warring with the unpredictable effects of multiple sclerosis, Zaccaro went on to raise an amazing $10,000, making her the event's top fundraiser.

"Lauren inspires me and many others with the courage she possesses in the face of adversity and her understanding that even she alone can make a significant difference in the fight against multiple sclerosis," said Amanda Saccuzzo, development coordinator and event coordinator. "Lauren's willingness to step out and speak up and her fundraising efforts are going far to help bring us close to finding a cause and a cure for what has proven to be a formidable foe - multiple sclerosis. Her confidence and optimism is contagious.""MORE

"CHLOE - MY PERSONAL FRIEND AND HERO FOR HER PERSEVERANCE" -Stan, Founder MS News Channel

2006-09-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

"Hi Stan....This site has cut out hours of my surfing for news. now i just use u stan. im glad were friends now HERES ME:

august 28 1987 a girl was born exactly 18 years and 14 days later and a girl died. That girl was me. On the 11th September 2005 i went into hospital and emerged 8 days later a changed person.

On wednesday 14th September i was diagnosed with MS.

It was like a dream. A nightmare. In the room everyone who i loved was so sad as if someone had died. I suppose a part of me died that day. I didnt even notice. It never dawned on me. I was in denial. I was dying inside. I was screaming but no one could hear me. I was crying evernight but no one noticed. I have never felt more alone. I was alone. Everyone offered me support and was there for me constantly and that was great. But no one knew of the pain i endure every single day, each step i wince inside, everytime i put on my clothes i feel 100 pins sting me. I feel like this 24/7.

But still i smile on, but still im a happy person

I am a stronger person than i have ever been. exactly 1 year ago and 14 days a new girl was born. Im growing to accept and appreciate that person. That person was me"- Chloe

Samantha: OUR HERO FOR HER DEVOTION TO HER MOM...PLUS THE HELP SHE GIVES 100'S OF OTHERS THROUGH HER MySpace GROUP: "MS SUCKS"

2006-09-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

"My name is Samantha and i am 15 years old.

My mom was diagnosed with MS about 11 years ago.

I give my mom her shots every-other night

Although life is harder for my mom than most, she loves life and does as much as she can. Our whole family participates in the annual MS walk in San Diego every year. My mom enjoys walking, and working out; even with her disease. She is a person who refuses to break down, and sometimes acts as if she doesnt have a disability at all.

I never realized how many people have, or know other who have MS until i became more involved with MS groups and events. I think it is really important that people with MS know that there are others out there going through the same things, and that no one is alone" - Samantha

OUR MySpace FRIEND CARRIE: A HERO FOR HELPING OTHERS WITH HER GROUP: "MS 20 SOMETHING"

2006-09-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have been diagnosed since I was 22

Hi Stan,

Thanks for The MS News Channel!

I feel lucky to help the newly diagnosed and the people who have been diagnosed forever find out information.

For many people it seems like being dxed with MS is scary to terrifying. I hope that my site can make it a little less scary and help put a face on the disease.

I think it is crucial for people who are dxed with MS realize that they are the same person they were before the diagnoses and they most likely have been living with this disease for awhile.

I think the words of advice that I have for the newly dxed is for them to realize that they are the same person they were before the diagnosing.

I think that it is important for people who are newly dxed to find support for dealing with the disease. Family and friends can be a great support, but I think that it helps to have someone else who has been dxed. There is understanding that happens, in my opinon, with people who deal with MS everyday.

:-)
Carrie

232 Friends of the MS Health Channel: The New Faces of MS

2006-09-04T08:27:00.003-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=A Real Hero: Mia...
"MS is a part of our lives but we dont have to let it be the only part"

Stan...

Thank you so much for MS news channel...As a 26 year living with the dx of MS for 5 years..things like this really help.

Im a mother of 3 but they are of the fuzzy persuasion.

I work at GE as a Field Service Coordinator..Sounds fancy schmancy i know=) I like to think of myself as a fun outgoing girl who loves life

I recently had a severe exaserbation of Optic neuritis that also robbed me of my ability to walk without a cane. I rememeber telling my best friend..I have never felt so...disabled..It was one of the worst feelings in the world. If anyone needs to talk never hesitate to message me..I am always here....God Bless!!"

2006-09-02T23:24:00.000-07:00

MS Heros: OVERCOMING ADVERSITY...Billy Talent Drummer Living With MSAaron says that he feels "stronger both mentally and physically" then ever

2006-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros:
Author Alan Labonte is celebrating the release of his new book, "A Million Reasons." Labonte was diagnosed with MS in 1991 and subsequently fired from his job [CLICK FOR MORE]:
NEW BOOK....

"Alan Labonte lives a good life. He has a nice home on Border Street, a loving wife, Lora, and a good job as a member of the faculty at Boston University. But there was a time not too long ago when Labonte found it a struggle to keep a positive outlook on life. After relocating his family to Cohasset from the western part of the state to take on a new job at the law firm of Hutchins & Wheeler, doctors informed him he had contracted multiple sclerosis. He was fired from his job just six months later.

While it took years to come to a resolution, in the end Labonte, now a Scituate resident, says it was worth it, as his case set a new legal precedent, protecting the rights of Americans with disabilities. Today, he is happy to be able to share his story with others, through his newly released book, 'A Million Reasons,' published by Cohasset-based publishers Hot House Press.

Labonte is able to share his story with others for one reason: he turned down a $3 million settlement offered by Hutchins & Wheeler. By accepting, he would have also been agreeing to a non-disclosure clause, which would have prevented him from telling his story. Instead, he chose to take a risk and follow his case through the legal system. 'I%u2019m sure they couldn%u2019t believe it,' said Labonte about turning down the money....."

2006-08-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "Teresa Burchette lives for teaching:

2006-08-28T01:42:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: MS doesn’t slow Liz Hanser - girls’ coach

2006-08-14T22:14:00.000-07:00

HERO'S = PERSEVERANCE: "Mastering her survival skills: With a double whammy of MS and breast cancer, Jill Jensen says she navigates it all with a positive attitude":
"The diagnosis, when it came three years ago, might have cast another into a dank submission, but survive is just part of what Jill Jensen does with bad news. It could even be said she thrives when handed life's perplexing challenges....."

2006-08-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

HERO'S = PERSEVERANCE: UCLA Safety Robert Kibble is excited about the upcoming season, just five months after dealing with an episode of MS.
In the spring, UCLA free safety Robert Kibble was dealing with an episode of multiple sclerosis. He got around with the help of a wheelchair, or a motorized scooter.

His movements were slow and strained. Participating in spring drills was impossible - and there had to be some thought that he might never again make it onto a football field.

But five months later he is back with the Bruins and, as one might imagine, ecstatic.
"I'm real excited. The team is excited. The coaches are excited," he said. "It took time to get back, but I worked hard at it and did the things I needed to do to get back where I am."

The sophomore from Houston, who along with Bret Lockett also could play strong safety this season, will get more opportunity to move forward today with the Bruins in full pads for the first time in fall camp.

Said Coach Karl Dorrell: "I'm just happy to have him out there playing. He's competing in our second team and has a chance to contribute and help the football team this year and you wouldn't have thought that with the condition he was after the spring. I'm just happy he's happy.

"I'm 100 percent. I'm ready to go," he said. "Physically, I feel better than I did before (the episode).

"The only thing is I'm kind of behind in the playbook a little bit, but that's nothing. I'll get that back with reps. I'm just glad it happened when it happened so I didn't miss any part of the season."

2006-08-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

HERO'S = PERSEVERANCEl 8-year-old Briana Landis Creating Awareness of MS...[VIDEO]

2006-08-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: You can't stop the 'raging granny':
"Dorsey was diagnosed with MS in 1988,"

2006-07-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Christin Harding's Ride of a Lifetime: Life's Pleasures: "This is a story of dedication above all else. Christin Harding was diagnosed with MS 13 years ago. t was Christin's catalyst to live each day like it was her last. She says, in a way, this disease was a blessing in disguise....13 years later, there's still no wheelchair...."

2006-07-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "Vix Bares It All For MS":
"...She attracted more than 5 million visitors to her internet site and raised $10,000 for MS..."I am having a lot of fun, and I'm showing people that just because you have MS doesn't mean you're not sexy and you're not still a person," Vix, a saucy 36-year-old who suffers from MS, is baring it all to raise money for MS research and support programs.....But not everyone is a fan of Vix baring her breasts.

Although most of the response has been positive, she says several people have been critical of her cheeky campaign. "If any of these people can think of another way, for absolutely no output and cost to anybody, to make that sort of money in such as short period of time for MS then I'd like to hear what that is," noted Vix.

Because of the adult nature of Vix's site, we've decided not to include a link on our website. But if you'd like to donate to her cause, you can visit her site directly at vixpix.org....."

2006-07-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "Squiggy" and His Battle With MS:
"Actor David L. Lander, best known for playing 'Squiggy' on television's 'Laverne & Shirley,'" was diagnosed with MS in 1984, but hid his disease from the public for 15 years. In an effort to raise awareness about the importance of early and sustained treatment, David speaks with groups of people with MS as he 'plays the role' of Ambassador to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS).....David has also written a book chronicling his life with MS titled Fall Down Laughing: How Squiggy Caught Multiple Sclerosis and Didn't Tell Nobody."

2006-07-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Golfer Janice Triglione-Weiner:
"Janice Triglione-Weiner, who was diagnosed with MS in 1979, turned to LPGA teaching pro Cathy Macpherson for help with her golf game, but she found an opportunity to help herself much more than that......"

2006-07-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Therapy on horseback: "Lindsay Baker takes a ride on Kristov, a Norwegian Fjord horse, on Wednesday. Volunteer handler Diane Kerr assists her."

The gentle plodding of a horse's steps can be powerful relief from the world confined to ramps, concrete, canes and wheels. Jager explained that for riders who can't walk, the muscles normally used for walking are stimulated when riding. The horse's movement challenges the senses and improves balance, and the horse's constant movement works to massage stiff, underused muscles.

2006-07-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros:Christy Welliver fights - Stem-cell limits up for revision:
"Christy Welliver hates waste. The Columbia resident, who has MS doesn't understand how the government can demand that research labs throw away human embryonic cells after surpassing a legal quota. For this reason, she stood by State Sen. Chuck Graham, D-Columbia, on Saturday at the MU Life Science Center as he announced his support for new federal legislation that would lift restrictions imposed by President Bush in 2001...."

2006-07-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: MS hasn't stopped Paul O'Lone from entering the "Bodybuilding Fitness and Figure Championship"

2006-07-15T07:40:00.001-07:00

2006-07-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "David L. Lander, better known as Squiggy on '70s hit Laverne & Shirley, serves as a scout for the Seattle Mariners. "
Photo & Interview

2006-07-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Shirley Armstrong overcomes MS to win blue ribbon
Shirley Armstrong of Rancho Bernardo shows off her winning watercolor, ‘Leo,’ which helped earn her a best of show honor at this year’s San Diego County Fair....

2006-07-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Doctor finds room at the inn for a new life, courtesy of MS: "A grateful patient made Jim Valenzuela the sign that hangs over his front desk."

2006-07-12T07:26:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Carlo Magno, dog trek cross-country to raise money for MS research

2006-07-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Darner finds weight-loss cure
"I was 5-foot-1, weighed 195 pounds and had MS, I knew that willpower alone wasn't enough for me to lose weight. But I knew that if I got the weight off, I'd reduce some of my health problems, too." Darner thought of some friends she knew who had lost weight despite their medical problems through Take Off Pounds Sensibly, more commonly known as TOPS. She joined and changed her life....

2006-07-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: NEW BOOK: "Challenging the Dragon: The Heartwarming Story of a Man Who Lives in the Shadow of Two Valleys"
" Meet Jim Haverlock...For the past twelve years Jim has struggled with progressive MS. “Challenging the Dragon” is his story. It is a timeless one with lessons and insights that will encourage and empower readers young and old.

At the heart of Jim’s story is that fundamental human quality: The desire to seek out or tool together ways to survive and yes, thrive in the face of a merciless adversary...“Challenging the Dragon” is available through Amazon, Borders, BookSurge, Alibris and the “Flyin-Blind” web site http://14ushop.com/flyin-blind/"

2006-07-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: MS is Nancy Davis's driving force:
"The 48-year-old Nancy Davis is pretty enough to be an actress or a fashion model but, luckily, she's not just another pretty face. At 33, when she was in a troubled marriage and the mother of three young sons, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and for the past 15 years has worked tirelessly to better the lives of all victims of debilitating diseases."

In between appearances on Dr. Phil and Larry King Live, Nancy took time out for a Charm Q&A.

Question: How has having MS affected you?
Answer: At first I was terrified, but I've learned that no health condition and no illness is insurmountable. Recovery begins by believing that you can overcome illness and live a productive and fulfilling life, no matter how devastating the diagnosis. I am a living example. So is Magic Johnson, Charles Schwab, Stephen Hawking, Teri Garr, Lance Armstrong, Andrea Botticelli, Michael J. Fox and Muhammad Ali. The list of people who have not allowed their illnesses to dictate their personal successes or failures is long enough to fill several telephone books.

Q: How are you doing physically these days?
A: I feel great. I still have some problems with numbness and my vision, but I'm able to be an active mom to my twin daughters, who are toddlers and I make sure to exercise as often as possible. My favorite activity is still skiing.

Q: How did the "RACE To Erase MS" begin?
A: In 1993 I sponsored a celebrity ski event in Aspen, which has now become an annual fund-raiser in Los Angeles that always has special fashion show and musical theme. I'm proud to say that 90-95 percent of the money we raise from these events goes directly to support the groundbreaking research conducted at the Center Without Walls, which is a unique collaboration among the nation's top seven MS doctors.

Q: How do you think families are changed when one member is seriously ill?.........

2006-07-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "David Kyle trains for competition on the U.S. National Triathlon team" :
"Looking straight into the eyes of adversity is something David Kyle has become accustomed to.......So what is the most difficult part about being a MS patient competing in triathlon? Kyle said that battling fatigue makes both competing and training a daunting task. "Fatigue is a huge downfall of MS I have to be careful about when and where I train, and always plan ahead to make sure I don"t harm myself. Also when I compete, I schedule a pace for myself. Kyle believes that through his accomplishments with the triathlon, it has helped him overcome many of life"s problems. I was able to use my competition in the triathlon to help me overcome my competition with MS," Kyle said. While training, it gave me a lot of time to think, and it has made me stronger mentally, physically and spiritually. I want to lead by example, and show people that life"s problems can be overcome."

2006-06-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Despite having Multiple Sclerosis, Jacob Bell is still able to play with his two-year-old daughter, Mackenzie.

Bell is an MS Ambassador, and is doing what he can to raise awareness of the disease. The active 30-year-old and father of a young daughter can't get overheated or stressed. And indulging in some of his favorite activities such as boating on the lake can trigger symptoms.Some days I'll pay for it,The worst a person with MS can do is worry themselves sick said Bell."

2006-06-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros:.Weizmann scientist discusses "miracle" MS drug:
"...relentless research in multiple sclerosis (MS), spanning three decades, that led to the development of a 'wonder' drug called Copaxone,""These things don't happen overnight," Arnon said, as she tracked the development of Copaxone from the inception of research in the late 1960s to the first trial results in 1971 to the drug's approval by the FDA in 1996.

"It took 29 years from beginning to end. Not at all unusual," she said matter-of-factly.

According to Dr. David Papermaster, the Solomon Professor of Neuroscience at UCONN Medical Center, who was at the luncheon, the drug was well worth the wait.

"Without a doubt, the most effective drug fighting MS has come out of the Weizmann Institute," he said.

Though Papermaster was quick to point out that MS does not fall within his particular area of medical expertise, those within whose professional purview it does fall were unequivocal in backing up his claim.

"Copaxone is having fantastic results," said Lisa Gerrol, executive director of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Hartford Chapter......MORE

2006-06-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Country & Western Artist Amy Clawson:
"...In the past year, Clawson said she spent time recording her upcoming album, 'Cowboy Up!' While most of the songs on the album came from other songwriters, Clawson said longtime fans might notice a change in her image and style.Clawson was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis several years ago, and the experience has left the singer with a newfound maturity.'I've taken a journey in the past four years,' Clawson said. 'In the past, I was always firm with the kind of music I sang and how I presented it. I was confident in my God-given abilities. This has made me try different forms of music, a little bit of blues, soul. And I've always loved gospel music. I've started integrating that more into the country.'The change in her live act is so noticeable that Clawson said her mother recently went to a concert in California and was unnerved by what she saw: a more mature and bluesy Clawson......MORE"

2006-06-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Junior Caregivers of both Parents Are A Lesson In Selflessness:
"Tracy Reece was diagnosed with MS three years ago. His wife, Christy, was diagnosed with Lupus four years ago. She also has Asthma and Fibromyalgia. It comes as no surprise that their boys, Drake and Taylor, have become very familiar with the various symptoms of these auto-immune conditions. They accompany their parents to the doctor's office and are very interested in learning all they can about their parent's health issues. They help them with their medications, do chores, and even tuck themselves in bed, if needed! They both love to do things to help other people with disabilities...."

2006-06-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "MS not halting this mom"
"Raising a baby and a toddler can be exhausting and stressful. But imagine having two kids younger than age 3 and hearing a doctor say, "You have MS." When Beth Stump got those words at age 34, she was angry. It was horrible, she said of learning her diagnosis. But she knew she had to take care of herself so she could care for her kids, and she decided the disease wasn't going to stop her...That was 20 years ago..."

2006-06-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

Dean Singleton: Newspaper Mogul received a diagnosis of MS in 1986 - New York Times
"...His company, the privately held MediaNews based in Denver, owns 55 dailies including The Denver Post, The Detroit News, The Daily News of Los Angeles and The Berkshire Eagle, plus more than 100 nondailies. With the addition of the Knight Ridder papers — The San Jose Mercury News, The Contra Costa Times and The Monterey County Herald, all in California, and The St. Paul Pioneer Press — MediaNews has become the nation's fourth-biggest newspaper company, up from seventh...."

2006-06-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: 82-year old Genny Turnham walked the entire 50 miles for her sister in a three day MS fundraising walk to San Diego.

2006-06-26T19:22:00.000-07:00

Perseverance..... Heros: With caustic wit, Teri Garr copes with MS: "...I'm on one of the interferons myself. I very much wish I had gotten on Rebiff sooner, Garr said. You
just go ahead and try to do what you can with what you've got...."

2006-06-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: slowed by years of hard work and MS, Harold and his wife Jeanette raise exotic animals instead of cows:
"Humphries the dromedary investigates a camera at Harold and Jeanette Peterson’s exotic animal farm"

2006-06-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Mountaineer credits MS for passion to hit peaks:
The 33-year-old is an outdoor- sports fanatic and takes every opportunity to climb, ski and bike. He teaches art and climbing to teens at Colorado Timberline Academy, a boarding school in the north Animas Valley, so he actually gets paid to do the things he loves.

But what has made his life full, he says, was the diagnosis at age 24 of MS.

'For me, it's been a gift,' he says. 'I just have this motivation. I can't sit back and let a good day go by. "I went through denial when I got the diagnosis. I didn't want to believe it," he says....."

2006-06-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

HERO'S - PERSEVERANCE: Dad's MS spurred teen to launch research project & attend Harvard:
"Lev Shaket, 17, who will attend Harvard University this fall, began doing research on MS with scientists at Emory and Georgia State universities three years ago, after learning that his father had the disease...This fall he's heading to Harvard University. His scholarship includes free tuition. But all that's secondary to helping his father. "I just look at it in terms of positive side effects," he said of his father's illness. "That it launched my career and that it made me try to treat [MS] and cure it." The Shaket family includes 17-year-old Lev and parents Alexander and Janna. In 1990, they came to the United States from St. Petersburg (then Leningrad), Russia; Lev was 2 years old. When Lev was an eighth-grader, in 2000, Alexander Shaket was diagnosed with MS. He eventually stopped working at a paper mill.

Immediately after learning of his father's MS, Lev began reading voraciously online about the disease. Soon he was writing e-mails to neurological researchers at Emory, expressing his wish to do research with them. He left out the detail about his fatherYue Feng, an Emory professor with a doctorate in cellular biology, took him under her wing, first curious and then impressed by the ambitious 10th-grader. "He'd come in after 4 o'clock and stay as late as possible," she said."......"

2006-06-25T18:45:00.000-07:00

Perseverance/True Heros:

"FACE OF MS": Kristin Bennett - "I was diagnosed in 2001, it was my junior year at Parsons School of Design. Anyway, I started out with a lot of denial, plus I was a full-time working student in NYC! I didn't have time for that "MS" stuff. I focused on school and work and had a really hard time taking avonex, it would depress and upset me more and more each day leading up to the 'injection' day. So I stopped taking it about 6 months after I started....I did a lot of research about excercise, diet, stress reduction and keeping a positive attitude that really helped me a lot and for awhile I believe I had it pretty well under control. I graduated from Parsons on time in 2003 at age 22...That summer though I started getting 'prickly' feelings. I started taking Copaxone that fall and still do. Since late 2004, I have had a baby, and I am still taking copaxone and am getting back on my pretty strict excercise program. My baby girl is healthy and I have breastfed her exclusively for 6 months.

Most people who know me don't know I have MS. Whenever the topic comes up I do bring it up if it seems like an appropriate time but I don't really bring it up on my own otherwise. I've noticed too that I do so much and stay so busy with my paintings, business, baby, errands etc. that people don't seem to remember that little detail that is a part of who I am.

That little detail is exactly how I want it to be. I am very dedicated to taking my medicine and treating myself with respect by eating well and excercising well."

2006-06-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: Ian Altman - On the trail of MS: "When I was 24, I found out I might have MS, Altman said. "One of the first things I did was get in touch with Jimmy Heuga, and he gave me a lot of great ideas on how to deal with the disease." The Heuga Centers approach to treatment focuses on healthy living and fitness, as well as positive mental attitude in keeping the disease and its symptoms at bay. In 2002, Altman attended the Heuga Center's Can Do program, where he said he learned how to manage his disease, maintain his health and emotional well-being, and most importantly, focus on what he could do instead of what he could not. Jimmy Heuga subscribes to an active living theory, and he has proven that it works, Altman said.Indeed, some may argue that Altman himself is testament to the approach. With regular cardiovascular exercise coupled with a regimen of the MS drug Copaxone, Altman manages to lead an active outdoor lifestyle that includes biking, skiing and climbing. He also is a member of Team Copaxone, a group of athletes with MS that is sponsored by the drug company. Since being diagnosed, Altman has summited numerous big peaks, everywhere from South America to British Columbia....."

2006-06-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "MS can't stop man's need for speed: Meet Robert Burgin: drag racer, MS patient"
"At first, it seems hard to reconcile the two realities. Burgin, who was diagnosed with MS more than 12 years ago, spends most weekends strapped into a vehicle with 300 horsepower, drag racing on a narrow strip of pavement at speeds in excess of 150 miles per hour.

Burgin refuses to let his disease slow him down.

"People do find it a bit strange, a guy with MS out there drag racing," he said. "But as long as I am healthy enough to do it, I'm going to keep racing........."

2006-06-22T08:53:00.000-07:00

Real Heros: University to honor Harry Potter author's MS work
....Rowling, 40, whose mother Anne died of MS at the age of 45 in 1990, has also given her backing to research in universities to try to unlock the mysteries of the disease, which affects the central nervous system.....

2006-06-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: MS does'nt stop Jane Holm from riding in two-day bike tour for 12th year in a row

2006-06-17T13:25:00.001-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=Real Heros: "Despite MS, Ms. 'Zippy Wheels' lives up to nickname...."

2006-06-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE = Real Heros: "MacLean was diagnosed with MS in September 2003 and has cycled in the tour -- a two-day adventure that includes....":

PERSEVERANCE=REAL HEROS: NANCY DAVIS

2006-06-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

The Nancy Davis Foundation for MS holds an annual Race to Erase MS gala which raises over $2.7 million in a single evening to fund MS research
Paris Hilton, right, holds a Maltese dog up for auction as host Tom Arnold takes bids from the crowd...Lindsay Lohan, left, and Nicole Richie, right, walk out with fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger after a fashion show featuring '70s-themed designs by Hilfiger at the '13th Annual Race to Erase M.S.' event at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.)
PLUS...live performances by Kool & The Gang, Sister Sledge, Macy Gray and Natalie Cole...

2006-06-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=REAL HEROS: 10-year old's ailment takes back seat to helping others

2006-06-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=REAL HEROS..."MS won't stop probation and parole officer Amy Harriman"
"Amy Harriman doesn't mind talking about what it's like to suffer from MS. She hopes sharing her experiences will help people better understand what is often a misunderstood diseases"......

2006-06-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=HEROS... 'I Hope To See The End Of MS'
""One million dollars is what I'm hoping for."....

2006-06-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE - HERO'S: Uphill all the way: MS motivates climber to keep up her activity:
"'Everyone has a mountain to climb,' Maggie Schneider tells fellow sufferers of MS.

For Ms. Schneider herself, that statement is literally true. Mountain climbing is both the activity she refused to permit her disease to force her to give up, and a principal means by which she fights its ravages...." Ms. Schneider, 46, was diagnosed with MS in April 1994...."

2006-06-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE - HEROS:
Magno’s MS Express driving toward $1 million for MS:
"Magno was diagnosed with primary-progressive MS in 1995...After five years of dreaming, planning and hard work, Carlo Magno and his dog Katie are ready to climb into his 1955 Autoette Cruise About, and embark on a cross-country effort to raise awareness of MS and to collect $1 million for MS research. "That check is damn near filled out in my head... he said...."

2006-05-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

HERO'S - PERSEVERANCE: MS can't stop Arizona marathon runner Krista Milne: Tips from Krista & Dr. Timothy Vollmer, her physician at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix." :
"At 5 a.m. when most of us are still hitting the snooze button on the alarm clock, Krista Milne is getting ready to train for San Diego's 26.2-mile Rock 'n' Roll Marathon, work, and care for her 4-year-old daughter Lauren.

On top of it all, Milne has MS and must cope with the the extreme fatigue and vision disturbances it brings.

'I'm wiped out,' Milne said on a recent weekday, sinking into a plush armchair with a glass of iced coffee. Earlier in the morning, Milne went on a 45-minute bike ride with her husband, Mark, who is also running the June 4 marathon....

"Once you've been diagnosed, there are various things that make the symptoms manifest — stress, heat, trauma in your life — so you try to minimize them," Milne says of the relapses. "I have good and bad days."....One day when she ran 22 miles was a mixture of both.

"Physical activity is one of the most challenging things for MS patients," says Dr. Timothy Vollmer, Milne's physician at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix.

Due to the rise in body temperature and physical stress, people with MS may develop additional symptoms during the race, and it could take them longer than usual to recuperate from such intense physical activity, according to Vollmer.

Vollmer recommends that athletes with multiple sclerosis pay special attention to keeping their electrolytes in balance and their bodies cool.

Though exercise may temporarily induce an attack of MS symptoms, he also says that "its long-term effects are very positive."

Many experts believe exercise makes the brain find new nerve pathways. This rewiring may restore lost cognitive and motor function. Vollmer says he encourages his patients to exercise regularly.

She remains this active despite the fact that she has had the disease for more than 20 years, which she hopes will prove that someone can have multiple sclerosis and still be healthy and physically active.

"Everybody thinks, 'Oh, MS — isn't that what Richard Pryor died from? Isn't everyone with MS in a wheelchair?' " Milne says before answering, "Well, no."

What has given Milne the drive to intensively train for the marathon in addition to working and doing her regular household activities?

Milne says she recites a mantra she calls the "Five F's" while running. Simply put, the Five F's are foundation, faith, family, friends and flow."......"

2006-05-27T07:49:00.000-07:00

HERO'S = PERSEVERANCE: Golf a lifeline in battle with MS - Tony Johnstone is a Senior PGA Championship player:
"....Not long after, Johnstone sat in his doctor's office in London looking at a white blob on a scan of his brain. The doctor explained the blob; multiple sclerosis was attacking the nerves in Johnstone's brain.
Johnstone thought the diagnosis was a death sentence.
His doctor told him about a drug trial for MS patients being done at Cambridge. The researchers had only 120 spots, though, and were about to close enrollment.
'I got the 120th spot,' Johnstone said. 'It was definitely the best cut I ever made.'
The experimental treatment involved Campath-1H, a drug often used in organ transplant patients to shut down the immune system and keep the body from rejecting the new organ. Johnstone went into the hospital for a five-day procedure, then returned a few months later for another three-day treatment.
'They figured if they could switch it off completely,' Johnstone said, 'maybe it could come back without a faulty memory.'
Maybe it would quit attacking his nervous system.
Lo and behold, it did.
'It's just been not a career changer,' he said. 'A life changer.'
He chokes up whenever he talks about the past two years of his life.
'I'm just unbelievably grateful.'
Johnstone just couldn't imagine a life without golf. He enjoys the camaraderie, the joking and the teasing too much. Even though the treatment has allowed him to continue to play, it is still a struggle. Humidity drains him. Ditto for stress."

2006-05-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

HERO'S = PERSEVERANCE: MS won't bench Chris Kieser

2006-05-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

HERO'S - PERSEVERANCE: "Slugger excels after overcoming adversity:
"Johanna Iwasaki can't help but laugh about it now. Playing her first full year on varsity, she is one of the best hitters in her school's lineup..."

2006-05-26T08:10:00.001-07:00

HERO'S - PERSEVERANCE: Former Miss America contestant 'puts it all in the Lord's hands'

2006-05-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

HERO'S - PERSEVERANCE: 'Gina's Giants' Raise Nearly $5,600 for MS

2006-05-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE=REAL HEROS...
Aaron Solowoniuk of Billy Talent rocks on with MS
"Aaron Solowoniuk is the drummer of the hit band Billy Talent which is recognized around the world for their spirit, attitude and explosive rebel music. Aaron has been with the group from the beginning. He recently posted a letter to fans describing his experiences with MS - you can view the whole letter by clicking above.

"The first song on our first record is called "This Is How It Goes". It's a song about one of Ben's friends who has multiple sclerosis. Today I would like to let you know that I am that friend with MS.

It was November of 1997, I had just started a new job at Daimler Chrysler building the new Intrepid, Concorde and 300M. I was making more money, and I could take off more time to play shows with my band Pezz. Days after starting my new job I got a strange numbness in my legs. I couldn't walk for more than five minutes without having to sit down because of this pain in my legs. I thought it was just because this job was a lot more physically demanding then my last job.

After months of tests I was told that I probably had MS but a full diagnosis couldn't be made until I had another symptom within two years.

In November of 1998 the numbness in my legs was gone but I could make it come back by bending my neck forward. This would also send a feeling of an electrical shock to my feet. Just a couple months later in January of 1999, I suddenly got an awful pain in my left eye. It was like being punched in the eye by a ghost. I went straight to my eye doctor; he told me I had optic neuritis.

When I told this to my neurologist, I found out that it's very common for people with MS and the disease was progressing. He wanted me to start a new type of medicine. I had to self-inject myself three times a week in the arm, thigh, stomach or butt – and do this for the rest of my life.

I practically ran out of the doctor's office and into the stairwell with my girlfriend close behind me. We cried in the stairwell for a while and then went right over to my parents' house. Through all of this madness, I was so lucky to have my girlfriend, who is now my wife and the mother of our amazing daughter, beside me.

Coming to terms with the fact that I had to start giving myself needles forever was really hard. A couple of the side effects really hit me once I started the medication. I fell into a deep depression and started seeing a psychiatrist. I really felt like my life was falling apart. I had always wanted to be a drummer in a rock band but was told I should "take it easy". I remember saying "ya right" in my head: none of my dreams had come true and I now had an incurable disease.

It was really rough for the first year and a half but the new medicine started to work. The MS Society of Canada helped me get all the information and tools to get my life back on track. My symptoms were gone, and when they did come back they were just minor set backs.

We changed the name of the band from Pezz to Billy Talent and continued writing music. We released a four song EP and got a record deal. I quit my job and started playing drums full time.

After recording our first record it was time to go on tour. Our first record took us across Canada five times, America four times, Germany five times, the UK four times and a weekend in Japan. I've also met a lot of my musical heroes and even become friends with a couple of them.

I guess the reason I'm telling you this is because I didn't let something like MS get in the way of me becoming who I was suppose to become.

Please share this story with anyone you think it would help. There are a lot of people young and old that are fighting some sort of disease and thinking that they can't win. You really can win if you believe in yourself."

Aaron"

2006-05-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

Jan West
"GRATITUDE FOR WHAT WE HAVE - !In June of last year, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. In fact, I spent a couple of hours of my 30th birthday in an MRI machine! (not exactly how I thought my 30th would go!)
I was alarmed when I awoke one morning to find my left hand and arm felt as if they were asleep. I thought to myself, this will go away, but by the end of the day it hadn't and by the end of the week it had spread to my chest and back. I figured it was probably a pinched nerve or something and I started to do some exercises, stretching and having my 3 year old son walk on my back. Nothing seemed to help. Then a few days later, I began to notice other parts of my body with similar strange sensations including my legs and feet and had some trouble walking. At this point, I became very scared. Doctors had a suspicion of what this might be, but had to rule everything else out before they could conclude that this was indeed Multiple Sclerosis. I held out hope that this would pass, and would be just a one time occurrence. They did an MRI and found 2 lesions in my cervical spine and 1 in the brain stem, since my diagnosis I have had 1 more lesion pop up in my cervical spine. I hope that I will follow a benign course with this, but I know that it is very uncertain for me at this point. I didn't know much about MS then, but now I do and I hope that I can do all that I can to help them find a cure.
My recent experience of being diagnosed with MS has given me a deeper understanding of gratitude. Some of you may think that how can she be grateful she just got this terrible diagnosis, I am not. I am grateful because it wasn’t something worse and believe it or not it is helping me to be a better person… Overall, it has been hard to get accustomed to new normals, losses, new sensations or loss of sensations. Emotionally it has been very draining. I have never felt a deeper sadness, hopelessness and despair but yet then again like I have said I have not felt more grateful that this wasn’t something worse, I am also more grateful for those days that I don’t feel that sadness that I experienced, I am more grateful for touch, grateful for every day that I can walk and take care of my children. I am grateful for how this experience is helping me to be a better person, I think that I have become more spiritual, maybe more caring and understanding of others. We are all in this together, and it is nice to know that I am not alone! "

2006-05-19T22:37:00.000-07:00

"MS and me: Mark Auld, 31, will not be bowed by an illness that is 150 years old":
"Living life to the full. Mark leads an active life and is determined that MS will fit in with his life instead of his life fitting in with it. It might not be in his nature, but he is fighting back in the best way he can. I was told in October last year that I had the most common strain of MS, an illness which is the most common disabling neurological condition affecting young people between the ages of 20 and 40.

From that day to this, I still hold the view that this illness will fit in with my life and not my life fitting in with it. But that can be easier said than done at times.

I have taken up the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi, which helps tremendously in MS and improving balance.

I have also succumbed to carrying a pedometer about my waist and walk as much as I can – normally about four to five miles in the course of a day.

I know that stress can be a major factor in MS flare ups, but if I have not walked the distance I have set myself, or spent 20 minutes on the exercise bike in the morning, I am normally in a cold sweat.

I try to set realistic targets and I get down if I can’t make them, but the alternative I dare not contemplate.

At times I feel withdrawn and depressed and, to my family and friends, I can only apologise and hope that is a temporary blip......."

2006-05-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Parenting with MS: "Sometimes, I'm mad at the MS"
How parents with MS and their kids - adapt and get stronger

2006-05-19T20:19:00.000-07:00

"After Decades Of Battling MS, This Woman Still Sparkles": "A morning chat with Kathy Aeschliman, who has been battling MS since 1980, pretty much makes your day. 'I'm feisty,' she said. 'But then, I'm surrounded by all the right people.'She's been using a wheelchair lately, instead of her walker, but it is not the MS that put her there. It is a herniated disk in her back. Still, her 'my glass is half full, not half empty' attitude shines through in her sparkly voice."

2006-05-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

VIDEO - Interview: Teri Garr
PBS..."I figure if you get a diagnosis of something like this, there's one of two ways to go. You go down or you can go up. You can look at the funny side of it, you can laugh or you can cry. So I figured I might as well be up about it....."

2006-05-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

"Barbara Steinfelder, who was diagnosed with MS in 2004, holds yoga classes for people who have MS. She is shown teaching a class...":

2006-05-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

VIDEO: "People go, oh, my gosh. M.S., you're dead. You're out of here. .... You're in a wheelchair...None of that stuff is true"
“When I got a diagnosis for M.S., I go, ‘oh, this is not stopping me. I'm not letting this stop me.’

"And I think to go around and talk about it and tell people that that's what I did and that they can do it, too, it helps people. It helps a lot of people feel better. So that makes me happy.” - And if she can do it, so can others. - “I think it's good for me to be functioning and okay and come out there and say, look, I have M.S., And if you have M.S., it's not so bad.”

For the past four or five years, Garr has been taking a powerful immunity-boosting drug called Rebif. And it seems to be working. She says her most recent M.R.I.s show no there’s been no progression of the disease.

2006-05-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

“Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist.” comic uses his MS battle for laughs:
"Katz was one of the creative minds behind the pop hit animated series “Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist.” He also starred as the voice of the therapist. Katz claims to be the only comic who uses his MS, for laughs. He was first diagnosed with MS in 1996"

2006-05-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

We are currently adding security to our web-sites: some photos & news-stories will temporarily not be viewable!

I AM SORRY! WE HAD A PROBLEM YESTERDAY !

We are in the process of adding more security to our websites to prevent hackers from accessing them. We are converting all photos so that we can host them on our own website. The good news is that we have have had 92,200 visitors as of today!

Sincerely,
Stan Swartz

2006-05-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

"Mother with MS Does Double Duty on Mother`s Day":

2006-05-11T22:43:00.000-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros: JORDAN SIGALET...24 years old...BOSTON BRUINS OF THE NHL...[click for "Jordan's Story"]

2006-05-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

CLICK TO READ MORE: "Carolyn Richens feeds a flake of hay to one of her American quarter horse geldings while making the rounds in her stable in Pittsfield on Monday afternoon. Richens was diagnosed with MS nearly 10 years ago. With the help of drugs she remains a competitive barrel racer"

NEWS & TIPS IN SPANISH....A New Service from The MD Health Channel:

2006-05-11T18:52:00.003-07:00

EN ESPAÑOL...HAZ CLIC AQUI PARA MAS...

2006-05-11T18:52:00.002-07:00

Pilates for MS
"...The benefits of this type of exercise program carry over into daily life as well. Della Reynolds, who has multiple sclerosis, met Ms. Morgan at the FMH Wellness Center. She explains that it is one of the few exercise programs that she can do and feel successful. "It has helped me learn how to sit and walk and drive in a more comfortable way," she says....."

2006-05-11T18:52:00.001-07:00

"Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding, Jr. was honored with the AAN Foundation's 2006 Public Leadership in Neurology Award for his work raising public awareness for MS.":

2006-05-11T18:52:00.000-07:00

MS HEROS-PERSEVERANCE: Her goal: Put MS out of business
"Martha Crowninshield brokered high-stakes business deals all the time as a venture capitalist. But never before had she been involved in a deal with a payoff that could help millions of people worldwide. Crowninshield is a major player in a landmark effort to search the human genome for genes that put people at risk for multiple sclerosis.

Crowninshield, a former partner at the investment firm Boston Ventures, is banking on the project. She, like an estimated 2.5 million people worldwide, has MS,

She believes the team effort, which involves scientists from all over the world, eventually will lead to improved treatments and maybe something better. In 2002, Crowninshield learned about the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium. After researching the project, she put $1 million of her own money into the project. "I wanted to be able to say I believe in this," she says. She also helped the scientists involved put together a business plan, which was crucial in selling the project to private investors as well as the National Institutes of Health and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

So far, the team has raised $15 million — just $5 million short of the money required for a massive five-year gene hunt for MS..."

2006-05-11T18:50:00.002-07:00

"FACES OF MS" Marissa Romanella: "When I was diagnosed with MS, the first thing I though was, "I have NO time for this nonsense". I am a student in my third year of the social work program at Ramapo College of New Jersey and I have a job, an internship, school, and a life to deal with. When my head finally stopped spinning I realized that as much as I could view this disease as a burden, it could also be seen as a push in the direction that my life should take. I am a social worker, I live for a challenge, and I will NOT let this disease define me. I began treatment and have been doing well, and next year, with any luck, I will be interning with the National MS Society"

2006-05-11T18:50:00.001-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros

"Montel Williams on MS....15 Years of Making Television History

2006-05-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

"FACES OF MS"- Andrea Holley: "I was diagnosed with MS thirteen years ago. The doctor put it all into perspective when she said "The lesion on your brain could either be a brain tumor (that would be inoperable because of its location) or MS, HOPE FOR MS! I have two children, Ryan is 9 and races dirt bikes, Sarah is 13 and plays competative volleyball. I am a full-time Realtor with REMAX. Sarah is my caregiver and gives my Avvonex shots to me once a week."

2006-05-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros
"I thought MS was an immediate sentence to a wheelchair, and having been very athletic all of my life, this terrified me. However, I very quickly realized that this was not the case. I was just beginning my life, and I was not going to allow MS to end it."....[MORE]

2006-05-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros: Mandy Bunn - "I was diagnosed with MS when I was 21 years old. At the time I was working full time, a full time student and most importantly a full time single mommy! ...With the strength of my mother and the unknowing strength of my child I began my fight. I started treatment and plowed through and now 6 years later I am here telling my story. Not saying that I don't hate it somedays where I feel like I have been ran over by a truck or just want to lay in bed, but I am better of then some and that I am grateful for! I still have everyday, I can still walk and type this letter. I can work, finish college and also help my son do his homework ( by the way is a lot harder then when I was in second grade). To me its okay to have bad days it makes me appreciate my good days, which I hope I have more of! Anyway I will take this challenge all the way, I will fight this fight because MS will never bring me down. [FACES OF MS]

2006-05-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros:

Firefighter lives a normal life despite MS:
"Shawn Gingrich, 37, receives support and inspiration from his older brother who, more than six years ago, was also diagnosed with MS"

2006-05-11T18:42:00.001-07:00

The New Faces of MS - Perseverance/True Heros

Kelly Sutton..."Her hope is to better the 17th place finish in the 2005 Daytona 250 and to improve her final standings of 29th last year. The lady racer who battles MS every day holds the honor of being the top-earning female in the history of the Truck series...."

2006-05-11T18:42:00.000-07:00

Trey Fortner and Potter are part of Shannon Hoelzel’s strong support group as she fights multiple sclerosis with a positive attitude
Meeting one of life's big challenges
"At first Shannon Hoelzel just felt tired. Really tired. The kind of tired that doesn't go away, not even with eight hours of sleep. Next she started to get migraines and then her vision started to blur and double, even when she didn't have a headache.Not knowing what was wrong or not being taken seriously when she knew something was wrong was even harder than hearing the diagnosis: MS....."

2006-05-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

"Breathing New Life: Tai chi exercises help Gary Paruszkiewicz fight MS":

2006-05-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE: TRUE HEROES...
AUDIO : Caregiver Role Brings Purpose to Kids
Ashleigh Rehs' story is one of hope. It reveals how a young woman can rise to the occasion, becoming more able and more self-reliant. She's 15. Her mother, Valerie, has MS

2006-05-11T18:35:00.001-07:00

PERSEVERANCE: TRUE HEROS...
TIPS: "David Lander speaks out about the struggles of living with MS" :

2006-05-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

CLICK FOR MORE:
"At age 33, Nancy Davis was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and told there was nothing she could do about it....Fourteen years later, Davis is not only still living a full and energetic life, she is helping others take control of their treatment. She has become a nationally recognized speaker about Multiple Sclerosis and founded the Center Without Walls, a national medical research organization. In her new book, Lean on Me, she talks about the important steps patients must take to gain control of their health and lives."

2006-05-11T18:34:00.001-07:00

PERSEVERANCE: True Heros...
Craig Coleman and his wife, Joyce Merritt, climbed to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, this January to raise money for MS research.:

2006-05-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE: True Heros...
"In a twist of fate for their marriage, both Betty and Randy Gard found themselves stricken with MS.":

2006-05-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE: True Heros...
"Angelee Smart (right) and her mother talk about being diagnosed with MS, making her one of the youngest people in the United States with it.":

2006-05-11T18:32:00.001-07:00

PERSEVERANCE-True Heros: "Sylvia Perez rides for two Pedal Partners, people in her life MS: her best friend's brother and another good friend, and she is one of the top fundraisers ":