Another year…I was panicked and terrified going in to see my neurologist today. It’s been a year since my last visit, after completing five years of monthly blood and urine tests following eight rounds of chemo/Lemtrada. A lot of people don’t understand much about MS, and to be honest, I don’t talk about it often. I struggle with shame-based feelings and often feel unworthy—like something is inherently wrong with me. And in December 2018, I found out something really was broken within me: my immune system. I’ll never forget the way my heart sank into my stomach when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. My neurologist was aggressive in her approach, and at the time, I didn’t understand why. I felt overwhelmed, confused, and unsure about what to do. But then my Aunt Mary said, “You know, multiple sclerosis is aggressive.” That was my wake-up call. I decided right then and there to fight—for my young life, my future, and my health. I realized I couldn’t just leave everything in the hands of doctors and neurologists; I had to take responsibility for my own well-being. I made it my mission to understand what was happening in my body and to do everything in my power to heal. Chemo and Lemtrada may have stopped MS, but it’s my lifestyle that has kept it away. It’s kept me strong and allowed me to feel good in my body. That diagnosis forced me to pay attention to myself, to really listen to my body, and to embrace self-care in ways I hadn’t before. It was a catalyst for change. I ended a relationship that was going nowhere. I started getting up every morning to run, discovered food as medicine, and leaned into God as my Waymaker and Healer. There’s a wealth of information about how lifestyle and diet can heal illness, but it’s not something you’ll hear in a doctor’s office. You have to take control of your health. No one is coming to save you. Yes, I’m aware things could go wrong someday. But I refuse to live in fear. Instead, I choose to live in gratitude—for today and for the chance to make choices that keep me strong. I’m doing everything I can to ensure I’ll still be here, running, moving, and holding my future grandkids someday. Love you all so much! Happy New Year! make 2025 the year you take care of you. #multiplesclerosis #mswarrior #healing #journey #happynewyear