By Samuel Fitch

Before my multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, I never understood why I always felt so warm—especially compared to others. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to work in my family’s restaurant. One unexpected benefit? A built-in cooling station. On particularly hot days, the walk-in freezer or refrigerator offered immediate relief when my body felt overwhelmed by the heat.

Like many of my fellow MS warriors, managing body temperature—especially in the heat—is a constant challenge. For me, warm weather isn’t just uncomfortable; it can completely derail my ability to function the next day. It’s frustrating because, here in Western New York, beautiful sunny days are few and far between. When I miss them, I feel guilty. I want to be outside enjoying them with my family—but sometimes, the risk just isn’t worth it.

So what’s my advice for managing the heat when you live with MS?

1. Stay Indoors with Air Conditioning: If your home has AC, don’t feel bad about using it. Temperature regulation isn’t a luxury for people with MS—it’s a necessity.
2. Use Public Spaces: If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, go someplace that does. Public libraries, grocery stores, or shopping centers can offer a welcome break from the heat.
3. Get Creative with Cooling: Do you have a friend or family member with a shaded pool? Water can be an excellent way to cool down, as long as it’s safe and you’re supervised if needed.
4. Cooling Products: While I haven’t personally used cooling vests or towels, many people in the MS community report success with them. These technologies are designed to help regulate body temperature and may be worth exploring, especially if you’re active outdoors.
5. Adapt Your Environment: I’m incredibly grateful that my career has shifted. Working in an air-conditioned office gives me the ability to maintain a more stable internal temperature, which makes a world of difference day to day.

If you’re living with MS, don’t feel guilty for sitting out a hot summer day. Protecting your energy isn’t laziness—it’s strategy. The heat may be outside our control, but how we manage it can make all the difference.

Stay cool out there.

— Sam Fitch