By Stacie Prada

March is MS awareness month, and it’s a good time to reflect on the lessons I’ve learned while navigating life with Multiple Sclerosis for 16 years. Of all of the lessons I’ve had to learn, the hardest has been accepting my MS is not just my problem.

When I was diagnosed with MS, I firmly wanted to be able to deal with it myself. I saw it as my problem, and I didn’t want it to affect those around me. I saw it as solely my responsibility, and I thought it would be unfair for me to let it burden anyone else.

I didn’t sign up for having MS, and neither did my friends, family, and colleagues. I thought I could shelter them from my hardships, and I thought that was the noble way to approach it. I strived to be independent and strong, and I thought being needy was a weakness.

When it got to be too much, I sought help. Some rose to the occasion, and some resented my pleas for help. I was embarrassed to ask, and it was crushing being rejected. Those willing and able to provide healthy support were grateful I was finally asking for and accepting help. They have been essential to my well-being, and I’m grateful for them.

I’ve learned that sharing my experience and counting on people to help me is not a burden. They are components of healthy relationships. It takes strength and courage to let people in, and I’ve come a long way. I’m grateful when people ask for and accept help with their challenges.

I’ve learned to let people know how my MS may affect them, and most people are incredibly supportive and kind. I hope to lead by example for how we can be compassionate and understanding when life doesn’t go as planned. We all have challenges throughout our lives, and hardship grows when we try to go it alone.

While this lesson has been hard earned, it’s also been the most rewarding.

*Stacie Prada was diagnosed with RRMS in 2008 just shy of 38 years old.  Her blog, “Keep Doing What You’re Doing” is a compilation of inspiration, exploration, and practical tips for living with Multiple Sclerosis while living a full, productive, and healthy life with a positive perspective. It includes musings on things that help her adapt, cope and celebrate this adventure on earth. Please visit her at http://stacieprada.blogspot.com/