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.
For me, summer joy can be as simple as sitting in my backyard, enjoying the sunshine, and watching my kids play in the pool. It can be a local festival, a small-town parade, a community concert, or a free event put on by a nearby village or city. Depending on where you live, there are often plenty of free or low-cost activities happening all summer long. You just have to look for them.
And sometimes those simple things end up meaning the most.
There is something special about a summer barbecue with family and friends. There is peace in taking a walk near a lake, river, pond, or any body of water you have nearby. There is value in being around people, having conversations, seeing familiar faces, and remembering that community still matters.
For those of us living with MS, summer can be both beautiful and challenging. The sunshine feels good, the season brings people together, and there are so many opportunities to enjoy life. But the heat can be one of the hardest parts to manage.
Heat can affect us physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can increase fatigue, make brain fog worse, and take what should be an enjoyable day and turn it into something overwhelming very quickly. That does not mean we cannot enjoy the summer. It simply means we have to be wise and prepare.
Wear light, bright-colored clothing when you are outside. A simple white T-shirt can help reflect the sun. Stay hydrated before you feel thirsty. Find shade when you can. Take breaks. Listen to your body. Do not be afraid to step away, cool down, or say no when you need to.
Summer fun does not have to be expensive to be meaningful. It does not have to be extravagant to be memorable. Sometimes it is the simple things that stay with us the longest.
A backyard. A grill. A walk by the water. A free local event. A few good conversations. Your family. Your friends. Your community.
For me, that is what summer fun is really about.
Be wise with the heat. Stay hydrated. Take care of yourself. And enjoy the people you love.
About Sam:
Sam Fitch is a financial advisor based in Jamestown, New York, where he helps individuals and families build stronger financial futures through planning focused on cash flow, protection, and long-term goals. Before entering financial services, he spent 25 years working in his family’s restaurant business, which helped shape his strong connection to community and service.
Sam also lives with multiple sclerosis and is passionate about supporting others navigating similar challenges. Through his writing and advocacy work, he hopes to encourage people living with MS to pursue strength, resilience, and a meaningful life despite the obstacles the disease can bring. He is a husband, father of four, and active supporter of the MS community.