Introduction

My name is Patty Solis.  I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2012 at the age of 42. Like many of you, I realize that I had MS much earlier, as I am aware of symptoms. In my early 20’s, I had my first symptom of heat induced fatigue. 

I felt “stuck or fallen” when I was diagnosed. We don’t know, what we don’t know. Who would understand me (marriage, family, work, friends), what would tomorrow bring, where would I ask for help, how would I know who to trust, and why did I feel so alone?

MS has many challenges. Obstacles may feel like a calm stream, or a raging river, maybe a very large lake that must be crossed or… maybe a dried up pond.

It has been 12 years since the diagnosis.  I have new meaning, gratitude, compassion, strength, ingenuity and knowledge.  As a nurse, I was a patient advocate.  As a person with MS, I continue to advocate. I was “blind” to many things. My vision is better.  I wasn’t a terrible person, but my ignorance was greater than it is now.

I wondered about my “calling” in life. What aspects would be lost if I was afraid to act (either with or without MS).  I have a voice and a purpose. At this time, I am creating this blog. Acknowledging that MS is very challenging for those diagnosed because no two people are exactly alike, although similarities exist.

I will continue this blog: sharing and listening to you, providing “hacks” that I have learned and that have been shared with me.  I will likely be illogical at times, sometimes MS will tell me "nope, not today". I will accept as there is "more to come".