Delicate Balance - Leigh Anne Nelson

Leigh Anne Nelson is a professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Pharmacy and a board-certified psychiatric pharmacist. She was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) approximately 10 years ago. She hopes her column, “Delicate Balance,” will help people living with MS become more aware of MS symptoms and learn to advocate for themselves by providing personal stories of her journey with MS. Leigh Anne is passionate about educating others about MS.

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Why I’m researching clinical trials as I prepare to switch my DMT

I wrote in the summer about changing the disease-modifying therapy (DMT) for my multiple sclerosis (MS). I’ve familiarized myself with the available DMTs, and I plan to ask my neurologist for her recommendation next week and then make a decision. As I’ve researched my options, I’ve become interested…

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Don’t just assume new neurological symptoms are because of MS

New or worsening symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) are often part of the disease’s unpredictable nature, but there’s danger in assuming that every symptom flare is another relapse. When I think back on the course of my disease, I realize I could have made a serious error by making…

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Navigating European travel with MS: Challenges and considerations

My daughter and I recently traveled to Belgium for a weeklong vacation. We enjoyed centuries-old architecture, world-renowned art, diverse cultures, and, of course, lots of chocolate and beer, which the country is known for. While Europe is rich in charm and history, much of its infrastructure was developed long before…

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When stable isn’t necessarily safe: Rethinking my MS medication

I went to see the neurologist last month for a routine follow-up for my multiple sclerosis (MS), anticipating no changes. After all, I’ve been on the same medication for my MS, fingolimod (which often goes by the brand name Gilenya), for about 10 years. I feel my…

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Listening to my body is key to navigating July 4 festivities

For many Americans, the July 4 holiday is a joyful celebration filled with fireworks, barbecues, parades, and time spent outdoors with family and friends. However, for me, it can present unique challenges due to my multiple sclerosis (MS). From heat sensitivity and sensory overload to difficulty participating in…

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What I didn’t realize she was doing for me and my MS

My youngest child is home from college for the summer. She had a fantastic freshman year, or as I tell others, “She’s living her best life.” I missed her this past year in so many ways. She never went through the “bad” teenage years. She actually enjoys spending time with…

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MS cognitive fog is one of the most challenging symptoms I face

The balance issues associated with my multiple sclerosis (MS) are clearly visible to others. However, one of my more problematic MS symptoms is largely invisible, especially since I’ve developed strategies to minimize its effect on my functioning. This symptom is cognitive impairment, often referred to as “cognitive fog” or…


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