I have always been a fan of organization and routines. Staying organized and up-to-date on my to-do list makes life feel manageable and productive. Having a good routine has always provided a sense of structure and control, even more so during busy seasons. But there have been plenty of times, especially as a remote worker, where my routine has felt extremely repetitive, unamusing, and tiring. When this feeling begins creeping up, it personally becomes essential to step away from my day-to-day norm and do something less traditionally productive. But first – it’s important to recognize your emotions and the signs of burnout approaching.
Continue readingCategory Archives: Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
Forms of Focus
By Stacie Prada
Life is full of distractions, disruptions, deadlines, and despair. Yet we go on. Sometimes we’re strong and excited, and other times we struggle. The measure of success isn’t an imaginary idea of being perfect. Whether we lead, push, pull, or fall short, it’s success to keep showing up and trying.
The ability to focus helps with test-taking, achievement, and success, yet what to focus on and when to focus are up to us in each moment.
What does it mean to focus? Often, it’s paying attention, limiting distractions, and concentrating. Do I have to push so hard all the time? Maybe not.
Continue readingReset and Focus
By Samuel Fitch
When we think of the word reset, we often picture restarting a computer or a phone. Most problems on a device can be fixed with a simple restart. But when it comes to us—our physical, human selves—we don’t have that option. We can’t just shut down and start over.
What we can do, however, is reset.
Sometimes that means taking a few moments to clear your mind, breathe with intention, and refocus on the task at hand.
Continue readingBuilding your Fortress
An individual going through a chronic illness like MS may be hit with a multitude of emotions like loneliness, helplessness, confusion, anguish, anger, and sadness at different points in time. The uncertainty associated with MS can be immensely stressful. Having a support system, whether it be friends, family, coworkers, or therapists, can help you navigate through the toughest times. Reaching out for help from your support network is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it shows that you have a strong support system to back you up in hard times. Below are some tips to build a strong and thriving safety net:
Continue readingBaked Cinnamon Apple Chips
As the air begins to cool and the trees start trading green for gold, there’s something
comforting about leaning into the flavors of early fall. These Baked Cinnamon Apple Chips
are the perfect way to savor the season—crisp, naturally sweet, and made with just a few
simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. They’re a light, wholesome
snack that’s great for school lunches, cozy afternoons, or whenever you’re craving a crunchy
bite without the guilt.
Building A Safety Net
By Monica Proctor Wilson
Hi warrior friends,
After living with MS for 18 years, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building a safety net. I always encourage MS friends to: 1) Research their choice of DMT’s, 2) Find a Neurologist that specializes in MS, 3) Keep a Mental Health provider, and 4) Build a Safety Net.
Step 1- Understanding My Safety Net:
Safety net can mean different things to different people. Before I could start building my safety net, I went to the definition:
Safety net (noun): something that provides security against misfortune or difficulty.
At first, I thought I already had one. I had family and friends that loved me. After the first year, the “Let me know if you need anything” texts faded. Not because they didn’t care, but because MS is complicated—emotionally, physically, and invisibly. I realized not everyone could truly understand what I was going through. 🧡 This isn’t about blame. It’s about recognizing who I needed in my safety net.
Continue readingYou Are Not Alone: How to Build a Support System with MS
Living with a chronic illness like multiple sclerosis (MS) can feel isolating at times. While we can be our own support system through self-love and self-care, not everyone has strong family ties that bring support and comfort. Many of us may not have a built-in support system, and that’s okay. The good news is that building one is entirely possible. Know that you don’t have to do this alone.
Continue readingEstablishing Safety Nets
By Stacie Prada
Back-up plans and safety nets ease my worries. If I know I have options and support, my stresses for the future can be put on the back burner.
Which safety nets do I have control over? Which are vulnerable and might not be reliable? How strong are my safety nets, and where are the gaps?
Continue readingCreating Your Safety Net: Living with MS
Life with MS can be full of ups and downs. Some days you feel strong and independent – others, you may need a little extra support. That’s completely normal. No one is meant to carry everything alone – MS or not.
Having a reliable support system – a personal safety net – can make daily challenges more manageable and help you feel more grounded, emotionally and physically. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your MS journey, it’s never too late to build or strengthen that circle of support.
Continue readingWhat Does a Safety Net Look Like?
By Samuel Fitch
When you think of a safety net, what comes to mind? Is it a circus act—a high-flying trapeze artist soaring through the air or someone being launched from a cannon, hoping to land softly?
The truth is, safety nets come in many forms. At their core, they are tools that provide security, comfort, and confidence.
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