Summer is often associated with vacations, travel, and spending money. However, rising costs and busy schedules can sometimes make those plans difficult. The good news is that there are plenty of activities that are both enjoyable and budget friendly. Creating a summer bucket list can help you make the most of the season while staying within your budget.
Continue readingBy Stacie Prada
When looking for things to do in the summer months, I think of my favorite experiences and memories. Some were big, pricey events with lots of planning, and some cost next to nothing, were memorable for some reason, and were special for who I did them with.
This summer I’ll have close family visit me. Our primary goals are to spend time together and relax. Still, it’s the perfect opportunity to create an indulgent staycation for me and a fun vacation for them. They’ve already visited many times, so my goal is to do more of what we’ve enjoyed in the past and find new experiences for us to enjoy together.
Continue readingThis easy 3-ingredient baked peaches recipe takes under 5 minutes to prep and transforms ripe July peaches into a warm, caramel-like summer dessert.
By Nicole Robinson
Summer looks a little different when you are living with multiple sclerosis. The heat, the fatigue, the unpredictability of symptoms – it all factors into how I plan, what I commit to, and how I protect my energy while still enjoying the season. Over the years I have learned that a meaningful summer does not require a big budget or an ambitious itinerary. It requires intention. And a little planning ahead never hurts either.
Continue readingBy Angel Blair
Continue readingIt’s that time of year again— the peak of the summer months is upon us. For those living with MS affected by the heat, staying cool becomes top priority. And for individuals on a budget, summer planning can require some creativity and thinking outside of the box. But there are ways to try and enjoy the season while being cost efficient and budget savvy. It’s about finding what works for you!
By Samuel Fitch
Having fun in the summer does not have to mean spending hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars on a fancy vacation, cruise, amusement park, or long-distance trip. Those things can be wonderful, but they are not the only way to make meaningful summer memories.
Sometimes the best kind of summer is a simple staycation right where you live.
Continue readingBy Dan and Jennifer Digmann
The mid-summer scent of grilled hot dogs hung in the air as the sun started setting and we twisted open another ice-cold beer.
Stadium organ music playing “Charge” faded into the background as our friend Erica asked Dan for another bag of Cracker Jack.
Welcome to an evening on our back deck.
Continue readingLiving with multiple sclerosis often means navigating a lot of unpredictability. While a lot of time is spent focusing on treatments and doctor appointments, there is one massive factor affecting daily life that is completely out of anyone’s control: the weather. From a sudden spike in humidity to the geographic location called home, the environment plays a huge role in how people feel from day to day.
Continue readingMSAA 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 Susan Russo as July’s Artist of the Month. Susan is from Pearland, TX.
Featuring Barry A. Hendin, MD
MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer
Question: Many individuals with MS experience bowel issues, most commonly constipation. How may this symptom be addressed through lifestyle and dietary changes?
Answer: Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in people with multiple sclerosis. These can range from upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as trouble swallowing, abdominal discomfort, and acid reflux, to lower gastrointestinal symptoms, such as constipation, diarrhea, and fecal incontinence.
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