Motherhood: An Inspiring Journey

Motherhood is a profound journey that embodies selflessness, nurturing and unwavering love. As I reflect on this extraordinary role, I am inspired by the remarkable mothers in my life, particularly my own mother, who has been a guiding light and a source of love and strength. Though I have yet to embark on the journey of motherhood myself, I am in awe of the physical and emotional changes mothers endure and the instant, profound love they share with their children.

Continue reading
Share Button

Reflections on Motherhood & MS 

By Kate

My journey to motherhood was pushed into warp speed when I was diagnosed 8 years ago. In 2014, I had just gotten married and started having vision and grip issues which led to my eventual diagnosis of MS. Before any treatment was considered my initial doctor (a lovely human) asked what it was I wanted for my life. I told him I wanted to be a mom. His response: “GREAT! You have 8 months to get pregnant and if you don’t I suggest we start treatment and reassess how and when to stop treatment in order to try again in the future.” This was good news, but like, no pressure, right?  

Continue reading
Share Button

Alas de crianza

Los cuidados y el confort que proporcionan las madres son un privilegio. Para quienes han tenido una figura materna, es fácil ver el impacto que ha tenido en su crianza. Las figuras maternas representan gentileza y el amor puro, pero también representan protección, ya que son feroces al proteger a sus hijos. La maternidad es un camino de amor y sacrificio. Implica cambios físicos, un torbellino emocional, expectativas sociales y un cambio de identidad. Independientemente de la edad de sus hijos, las madres siempre serán madres.

Continue reading
Share Button

Nurturing Wings

The care and comfort provided by mothers is a privilege. For those with a strong mother figure, it is easy to see how impactful their nurturing has been. Mother figures often represent gentleness and selfless love, but they also represent protectors and providers, fierce and relentless in protecting their young. At its core, motherhood is a journey of love and sacrifice. It involves physical changes, an emotional whirlwind, social expectations, and a complete identity shift. The juggling act commences, and it never really ends. Regardless of how old their children get; mothers will always be mothers. 

Continue reading
Share Button

Mother: Noun, Adjective, Verb

The word “mother” can suggest various definitions. Being a mother implies embodying the role of a parent or guardian, while the act of mothering implies providing nurture, affection, and comfort. The word “mother,” whether it be the noun, adjective, or verb, captivates endless emotions and interpretations, all individualized to one’s experience.

Continue reading
Share Button

Advice for Friends and Family Supporting Someone Receiving an MS Diagnosis

When a loved one receives a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), learning how to support them is vital. To learn what type of support people living with MS most value, we asked the MultipleSclerosis.net community:

“What advice would you give to friends and family who want to support someone receiving an MS diagnosis?”

The community shared lots of helpful insights!

Continue reading
Share Button

Karen Bloom – May 2024 Artist of the Month

MSAA 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 Karen Bloom as May’s Artist of the Month. Karen is from Kendallville, IN.

Continue reading
Share Button

Ask the Expert – Fatigue

Featuring Barry A. Hendin, MD 

MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer  

Headshot of doctor Barry Hendin, chief medical officer for MSAA
Barry Hendin, MD

Question: What symptom affects up to 80% of people with MS and can worsen as the day goes on?

Answer: Fatigue.

Question: What are your recommendations for people with MS who are experiencing fatigue?

Answer: Fatigue is the most common symptom of multiple sclerosis. Although fatigue occurs in the general population, it’s more common and often more problematic in people with multiple sclerosis. The first approach should be to investigate the cause of fatigue with your clinician or neurologist. When MS is the only cause for the fatigue, it is labeled primary fatigue.

Continue reading
Share Button

Tips for De-Stressing and Unwinding

By: Diana Cruz

As the month of April comes to an end, I’d like to take a moment to honor National Stress Awareness Month by reflecting on a few of the everyday steps that can be taken to cater to mental health. Lately, it’s been feeling as if life has really been taking its toll. With the most fragile aspects at hand including health and wellness, as well as work, personal obligations, family matters, and planning for the future, it can feel nearly impossible to handle it all – especially in a manner that allows for space for unwinding and enjoyment. Luckily, I’ve taken some time to write down a few tips that have really allowed me to feel more comfortable and confident with moving forward successfully.

Continue reading
Share Button

Conectando con la naturaleza para el bienestar mental

La naturaleza es una parte muy importante de nuestro mundo. Aunque no me agradan los insectos que la habitan, aprecio su belleza y todos los recursos que nos proporciona. ¿Sabía que la naturaleza puede ayudarnos a controlar el estrés? Esto se conoce con diversos nombres, como terapia de la naturaleza, ecoterapia, o terapia verde. Independientemente del nombre, se refiere a los beneficios terapéuticos de pasar tiempo en la naturaleza.

Continue reading
Share Button