WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Receiving the diagnosis that I had Multiple Sclerosis in 2004 was like piercing a dagger in my heart. I was at the highlight of my life.  I was a young attorney and thought this was the demise of my legal career.  I suspected for many years that I had it because of the “weird symptoms.”  I went from not being able to drive because I couldn’t see due to the blurred vision, not walking normally, dragging my left leg, not being able to feel my legs when waking up, not being able to taste, having panic attacks, depression and anxiety, among other symptoms.  These symptoms can bring despair, and they have certainly done so for me in the past.  However, having multiple sclerosis should not give anyone permission to stay “sick!” It does not serve you stay there and have this diagnosis consume your being.

            I say I have MS because the lesions are on the x-ray, but I also say it doesn’t have me. Switch your mindset and only feed yourself with positive energy, gratitude and love.  Worrying about what can happen when it hasn’t happened only exacerbates the condition because the Universe is paying attention.  In other words, energy flows where focus goes. Send your energy towards healing. 

My top 5 Dos:

1. Do whatever it takes to get support – try different types of medication which can aid in your health.  Get therapy if you are sad or depressed or just need to speak with someone.  Group therapy was not ideal for me, but some people do very well with it.  Join a mindful mastermind, which was the recourse for me.
2. Do meditate – it keeps you grounded and helps you from despair and promotes clarity and positivity.
3. Do gratitude affirmations – see the positive in your diagnosis.  You are only as sick as you allow your mind to keep you sick.  Being grateful is the currency to health.  
4. Do exercise – if you are able to exercise this is super important.  Try to exercise at least 5 times a week.  You need those endorphins to keep you from falling into depression.
5. Do eat healthy – Plant based meals are highly recommended, but I have found that in my life moderation is the key.  Figure out what foods make you feel tired, bloated and not in optimal health and avoid them at all cost.  A gluten free diet has been optimal for me. 

My Top 5 Don’ts:

1. Don’t hold on to the label that you are sick -this does nothing but keep you sick
2. Don’t stay sad or angry for too long – your body won’t work on healing you in this state
3. Don’t give credence to “all” the advice given to you – they tell you that you will be fatigued – I have found that is a lie in my life. 
4. Don’t believe you will get worse before you get better – doesn’t have to be unless you tell your mind so.
5. Don’t compare your illness with other people’s illnesses – you have no business comparing, it will only drive you crazy.  Save yourself the heartaches. 

The diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis does not have to mean the end of your life as you know it.  Seek out the best doctors to help you and surround yourself with positive energy.  Develop a daily routine that will promote your health and wellness every day of your life.  You can beat the progression of Multiple Sclerosis.