When I was first diagnosed with relapsing MS, there were thousands of questions I had about the disease and how it would affect my future. I remember first wondering how I would change the layout of my house to accommodate my illness. Should I move closer to the hospital or find a house that has only one level? I suspect we all go through a similar thought process. Now that four years have passed, it seems this thought was only one of many that went through my mind. I make sure that I attend seminars, meetings and CHATS to stay grounded and current in my education about MS.

I have always been the kind of person that likes to stay busy. Since starting my company nearly eighteen years ago, I have learned that there is always something for me to do and I like it that way. I have slowed down some since I was diagnosed (to help maintain my energy level), but I still stay quite busy. Although I say I have slowed down because of MS, I secretly know that some of that "slowing down" is because of my getting older - I just hate to admit it! Working every day contributes to my well being and self worth and not working would really change my life.

When I was first diagnosed, I spent time in the hospital and missed work for several weeks. When I was released from the hospital, my number one goal was to get back to work as soon as possible. After being home for about a week, I received a call from the hospital asking if I needed help filling out Disability Forms. I was surprised to get that call and asked the woman calling why she thought I needed to fill out the papers. Although not sure, she explained that I had been diagnosed with MS and certainly I would not return to work. After hanging up the phone, I cried assuming that lady knew more than I did about MS. How I would carry on with my work situation?

I have found, through participating in MS Programs, that there is a misconception that an MS diagnosis is an automatic ticket to Disability status. It is a great feeling that there might be financial safeguards available if you need them.

I am lucky that I am able to work every day and in fact, I think I may work just a bit too much. I know that when I leave my home in the morning for work, I can leave work early if I get tired. I have friends with MS who also have jobs, and know that they can leave when they feel tired — they find ways so that they can keep their jobs and stay healthy. If we want to work and MS does not interfere with working, I think it is great that we have that choice. For sure, an MS diagnosis doesn't automatically mean that we have to apply for disability....it just isn't true!