My happiness quotient correlates with my ability to give. I find tremendous satisfaction in doing this. This is one reason…
Articles by Jennifer (Jenn) Powell
It is 2 a.m. and I am awake. I sit on the couch with my head in my hands. The…
I remember a time without televised ads promoting medication. We had access to information through our physician or a card…
Living with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is a lesson in adaptation. The constant is change. This disease has given…
If I told you that standing on your head would cure multiple sclerosis (MS), would you do it? I am…
I am in a state of anxious exhaustion. Anxiety has been a lifelong companion that has presented itself in…
Marriage is hard. It is also the most beautiful, sacred, and honest of all my experiences. Our vulnerable reality is…
At 17, I began a 20-year odyssey with endometriosis. The doctor’s platitudes and disbelief were astonishing and leveled my…
My eyes are closed. Both arms are in a loose “X” across my chest. I feel my heartbeat quicken as…
I saw a praying mantis this morning. The long, leaf-like oddity caught me off guard. I was transfixed by…
Mama said there would be days like this. I just never thought there would be so many. After three days…
I recently sent my neurologist a thank-you card. A friend of mine was incredulous and truly baffled at my gesture.
It is the most wonderful time of the year. Sounds of commentator calls, audibles, and cheering crowds fill the house.
I am quite outspoken. I have no problem voicing my opinion or needs — or so I thought. An exchange…
I recently saw a greeting card that read, “You never know how strong you are until being strong is your…
I find airport newsstands alluring. I am drawn toward the litany of books. Shelves of colorful covers beckon to me,…
The glow of the fireworks bathes the surrounding trees. A kaleidoscope of blue, yellow, and red illuminates the night sky.
I am frequently commended for my demeanor. For my strength amid pain and adversity. For my optimism and happy disposition.
A well-known mantra exists in the multiple sclerosis (MS) community. I first heard it after my diagnosis and have since…
Our emotional selves are unique to each of us. The catalysts that elicit tears and fears vary. We feel emotions…
Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is an education in and of itself. I’ve learned a lot about myself and I…
They say that the only certainties in life are death and taxes. While I agree with these two, a third…
I am a positive person with not-so-positive moments. These moments don’t quantify my essence. Nevertheless, they sure try. I work…
Few things scare me. I mean, truly frighten me to my core. While I flee from bees and scream at…
I spend a great deal of time in my head. I think. A lot. Perhaps…
I am balancing my laptop on one pillow and a leg brace. I have myriad MS-related health issues; alas,…
Fatigue falls…
I am a strategist. I think things through. This attribute is borne of necessity. A birthday dinner is…
Living with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is a lesson in discovery. I strive to manage life with MS one…
If a cat has nine lives then I have at least twice as many. One day shy of my…