Giving, thanks, joy, togetherness, festivities. If you were to see these words, you would most likely think of holidays throughout the year and perhaps picture a happy family, a crackling fire, and laughter from a Hallmark movie.
So, what happens during or after a holiday when you are left feeling defeated, overstimulated, or even just…empty?
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….based on totally true events (probably) from multiple eyewitness reports and personal experience.
Gerard had a rough day.
Physically and mentally exhausted, he pulls into the parking lot of the grocery store. He has been putting off this errand all day but after finally running out of enough necessities, he felt forced to make his stiff body drive the 10 minutes down Old County Road. Despite the neon “Open” sign blazing brightly in the window, not one vehicle was parked in the large lot. The overhead light flickered ominously as he tentatively walked through the automated doors of the store.
Time stopped. He closed his eyes as he accepted the horror in front of him.
Continue readingFour years ago, Ashlei Brown ran her first endurance event as part of Team MSAA. The view was about as good as it could get – EPCOT.
In July, Ashlei shared her struggles with a severe MS flare that she experienced in 2020.
“2020 I was in the biggest episode of my life, hardly able to walk. I was stressed about moving my family across state lines from Florida to Tennessee into unfamiliar territory with no extended family to lean on… in the middle of COVID. My MS is completely under control now, thanks to the amazing people at @VUMChealth.
I think it’s time to run again for @MSassociation”
We wanted to hear more about Ashlei’s journey with Team MSAA, and what inspired her to run again at Disney.
Continue readingCompleting a 10k endurance event last year wasn’t enough for Team MSAA participant Tiffany McCahill. She’s doing it again, but this time raising the bar and taking on the half marathon!
As usual, time slipped by me and before I knew it, we were already days into June.
It’s a common enough routine: laughing with colleagues or strangers and saying, “Can you believe it’s June already?” or “I forgot it’s not May!” Usually, this conversation ends with a chuckle, perhaps a little added hustle to catch up on work, but ultimately no trouble.
But there are some months that are just more stressful.
Continue readingBy Dana Mietus
Every summer, a familiar pattern emerges. The weather warms up after months of being indoors, and I find myself anticipating exciting summer events and vowing to make the most of each one. Particularly in the month of June, when Pride celebrations are in full swing weekend after weekend.
Yet, every summer, I find myself overwhelmed by these events that I think should excite me. The adrenaline crash from giving up on plans leaves me feeling tired, guilty… and oddly relieved?
Let’s be candid. Summer can be hot, humid, demanding, busy, and downright exhausting. So why do I look forward to it every year? The truth is that some of my favorite memories took place in the summertime. How is this possible when it now fills me with dread?
The answer lies in managing my own expectations.
I tend to view every summer plan and event as mandatory, believing my presence is necessary for the summer to be a “success.” But when did summer become a graded experience? My fondest summer memories come from organic moments spent outdoors with loved ones—no special events, no strict schedules, and no expectations.
Ironically, my attempts to recreate those moments by overloading my schedule with events have led to my inevitable overwhelm and disappointment.
Take Pride, for instance. I’ve yet to attend my local pride parade, which would lead me to fear that I was missing out on a crucial yearly event and that I was guilty of not showing up for my own community.
But let’s consider a few things:
I’m susceptible to heat and easily overwhelmed by crowds…so of course it may not be the best idea for me to attend a parade in the summer heat. No wonder just the thought of attending makes me fatigued.
Why didn’t I connect these dots sooner? And what’s the solution?
Here’s an idea I’m going to try and implement:
First, reflect on what genuinely brings you joy and why. This could be as general as spending time with friends or being outdoors. Or you can apply it specifically to an upcoming event. For instance, I might have an easier time in crowds if it is in a different setting I enjoy, such as concerts or sports events.
Next, objectively list some factors that hinder your enjoyment of these events. In my case, it’s the heat, crowds, and difficulties accessing restrooms or parking. These are all things that might make me apprehensive about attending an event.
Plan accordingly or consider trying something new. How can I lessen my apprehension? Would taking an Uber help to alleviate the stress of finding parking or getting into a scorching hot car after an outdoor event? Maybe I can locate a nearby restaurant or café to cool down and have access to a restroom afterward. Instead of attending a pride parade, I could explore a pride-themed event at my local bookstore or library.
Lastly, take a moment to rest, recuperate, and most importantly, be proud of yourself for prioritizing and caring for your needs. If you’re anything like me, this may be easier said than done. So let me say it to both of us this time:
I’m proud of you.
By Dana Mietus
Let’s start with some good news you might not know: No matter what way you choose to spell the Jewish festival of lights – you won’t be wrong. Of course, you could also see it as you can’t be right, but as someone who regularly spell-checks the word ‘restaurant’ (no I did not get it right the first time writing this) I prefer to choose the never wrong option.
