On October 31, 2004, I was diagnosed with M/S after going completely blind in my left eye and completely numb on my left side.  I thought I was having a stroke as my Mother had one several years earlier.  After many tests, I was diagnosed with M/S; which at the time, I had no idea what M/S was or did I know anyone who had the illness.  I was devastated! 

In February 2005, I was told by my employer of 28 years, to "retire".  Once again, I was devastated.  I had lived in a condo for the past 25 years which I absolutely loved; unfortunately, was upstairs.  Therefore, I had to put my home up for sale.  In a matter of minutes my entire life changed!  All the things that were a familiar to me were gone.  My family and friends were supportive at first; however, that slowly subsided. 

Here I was, no job, home up for sale, no family and/or friend's support.  Everyone I thought I could depend on were gone.  Some of them treated me as if I had a contagious disease.  One person told me that she wasn't going to rearrange her home if and when I went to her house just because I have a fear of tripping or falling.  Another person told me that she was sick and tired of hearing about "my M/S".

On the bright side, I retired and have a liveable income, I sold my condo in a matter of weeks and moved to an apartment complex which I absolutely love (downstairs).  I learned how to be more independent and make new friends.  I look back at the time when the nightmare began, I didn't think I was going to survive.  But I did!   

Now I am trying to help as many people as I possibly can that have this "goofy" illness.  I belong to several support groups and have a column dedicated to this illness where people can write and ask my opinion and/or questions in regard to M/S.  (I wish I could do more!)

Some day a cure for this illness will be found!  Until then, I am going to stay positive and thank the good Lord everyday that I am alive!