By Nicole Robinson
Living with multiple sclerosis has taught me a lot, especially when it comes to protecting my mental and emotional well-being.
When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t have it all together. There were moments of confusion, frustration, and a lot of questions about what my life would look like moving forward. While I still don’t have all the answers, I’ve learned that small intentional habits can make a big difference in how I show up each day.
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At the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA), community is at the heart of everything we do. One of the inspiring ways we aim to bring community to life is through Team MSAA– an organizational initiative that encourages individuals to come together through endurance events for the purpose of improving the lives of people affected by MS. Members of Team MSAA include those living with MS, care partners, friends, family members, and advocates who want to make a difference. Each member plays a vital role in advancing MSAA’s mission of Improving Lives Today.
One story that has moved our hearts is that of Jessica Chittenden and Joseph Kiernan, siblings who ran in the 2026 Walt Disney World® Half Marathon presented by State Farm to honor their father, Patrick Kiernan, while also raising funds for MSAA’s programs and services.
Continue readingMSAA features the work of many talented artists affected by multiple sclerosis as part of our annual MSAA Art Showcase. Each month we share these artists’ inspiring stories and beautiful artwork with you as our Artist of the Month. This month, we celebrate Diane Bustin as May’s Artist of the Month. Diane is from Collins, MS.
Featuring Barry A. Hendin, MD
MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer
Question: What causes the pain and tight pressure around the body known as an “MS hug,” how is it treated, and can it be avoided?
Answer: The causes of the MS hug aren’t entirely clear, but we believe it is caused by an inflammation or injury to the nerves of the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. This inflammation interrupts nerve impulses and sends mixed signals to the body and the muscles. When experiencing these symptoms for the first time, it is often uncomfortable and disturbing. The term “hug” may sound inappropriate as a hug normally refers to a warm and affectionate feeling, unlike an “MS hug” that can be quite uncomfortable.
Continue readingBy Dr. Eva Jackson
Holistic wellness plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). This approach, recognized and studied by numerous organizations, focuses on treating the whole person rather than addressing symptoms in isolation.
When I was first introduced to life with MS, my care team did not clearly explain the importance of whole-person care. Yet, despite this lack of explanation, that is exactly the model they implemented. Soon after my diagnosis, a comprehensive and coordinated plan was developed to manage my symptoms. My care team included a neuro-ophthalmologist, urologist, MS specialist, sleep medicine specialist, and a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis. At the time, this fast-paced, multidisciplinary approach felt overwhelming. In retrospect, I deeply appreciate how effectively each provider worked together. This coordinated care exemplifies the essence of holistic wellness and addressing physical, emotional, and functional needs simultaneously.
Continue readingBy Stacie Prada
Last year, my naturopath suggested I take deep breaths each day, and I agreed it would be good for me. I approached it like a prescription and made sure to do it. I followed guided meditations, and they were fine. I’d set a timer and count deep breaths in and out to meet the goal. It seemed good for me, but I didn’t love it or look forward to it.
Then I had an “aha moment.” I’ve long wanted to improve my singing, and I realized I could make progress with singing AND practice breathwork in a way I’d enjoy.
My inspiration was a music app. It would allow me to do breathwork and improve my musical knowledge and skills. Most importantly, it could be fun. I’ve now been doing singing lessons for a few minutes each day for 22 weeks. Because I want to keep my streak, I make sure I do it every day. I love that it’s a bite-sized daily commitment, and it’s doable.
Continue readingBy Samuel Fitch
There comes a point where continuing the same patterns will only lead you further away from the life you actually want to live. For me, that moment wasn’t dramatic. It was quiet, but undeniable. Between living with multiple sclerosis, navigating the sudden loss of my mom, and recognizing that my overall health was trending in the wrong direction, something had to change.
Not eventually. Not when it was convenient. Now.
For a long time, I operated the way many people do—focused on responsibilities, pushing through fatigue, and accepting certain limitations as “just the way things are.” Over time, the signs became harder to ignore. Low energy. Brain fog. Poor cardiovascular health. A general sense that I wasn’t operating at the level I knew I was capable of.
Then a simple but heavy realization settled in. I still have a lot of life left to live. That thought forced a question I couldn’t avoid—am I doing what’s necessary to be here for it?
Continue readingSpring is finally here and it’s time to enjoy the delicious fruits available this time of year.
If you’re looking for a last-minute dish that’s healthy and requires zero cooking, this fruit salad is your new go-to. It’s crisp, refreshing, and looks beautiful on a picnic table.
I have realized that every time I go to a doctor’s appointment, I walk in already feeling guilty — mentally preparing to defend myself, almost expecting judgment. Before the doctor starts asking about my exercise routines and eating habits, I am literally saying in my mind, “Guilty as charged”. But guilt doesn’t move us forward. Conscious choices do.
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Me considero una persona rutinaria. Tengo la tendencia natural de apegarme a las rutinas que funcionan, y me resulta difícil modificarlas una vez que se vuelven cómodas. Si bien las rutinas pueden ser útiles, en ocasiones hacen que la vida se sienta automática, como si se viviera en piloto automático, cumpliendo responsabilidades sin prestar verdadera atención a lo que ocurre. Una forma de salir del piloto automático y de esa sensación de estancamiento es a través de microaventuras.
Las microaventuras son acciones pequeñas, sencillas y sorprendentemente efectivas para salir de la rutina. Invitan a la curiosidad, estimulan la creatividad y aportan una perspectiva renovada al día. Una de las mejores formas de salir del piloto automático y de esa sensación de estancamiento es atreverse a hacer algo diferente.
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