Gift yourself grace and hope when living with MS
When I was a little girl, I’d climb fearlessly into Santa’s lap, Christmas list in hand, and excitedly rattle off everything I wanted — from a Barbie Dreamhouse to a new puppy.
I look back at that little girl, ready to embrace life and seize the day. There was an innocence and simplicity in a gift’s ability to make her world feel perfect in that moment.
I am no longer that little girl, and life is far from simple. Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) has redefined who I once was and continues to shape who I am today.
As my disease changes, so, too, does my perception of what truly matters. The things I once prioritized feel small compared with what I now appreciate.
What I would ask Santa for — not just for me but for the entire MS community — has become more nuanced.
My wish today is to share with you these gifts I have learned to give to myself.
Gift grace
Living successfully with MS symptoms as our constant sidekick requires patience and grace for everyone. So often we have grace for others, yet little to none for ourselves.
Our body is quite literally waging war on itself. We cannot afford to compound that with self-criticism or unrealistic demands.
Gift yourself compassion and grace — it is not an indulgence but a necessity.
Practice acceptance
Acceptance of MS and the reality we face is critical.
Worsening physical disability and cognitive or emotional changes have been difficult for me. I grieve the person I was before MS, before progression, before pain, and before insomnia, mobility issues, cog fog, and so much more.
Yet, I am able to pause and accept the grief, so I can look at it fully and move forward. IÂ am still learning to create new possibilities in place of those I have lost.
There is no time like the present. Stay here. Accept what is in front of you, and leave the future of your disease for tomorrow.
Your body and mind will thank you.
Create connections
Connecting with others has been one of my most pivotal lifelines. Support networks, information, resources, and friendships are incredible gifts.
The power of being seen and feeling heard is intoxicating. I often feel misunderstood, so that sacred space is integral.
Support groups, online health forums, and advocacy organizations all offer wonderful ways to connect with others in the greater MS community.
If you don’t have a support system, please find one. Among those with MS, there is a high prevalence of depression and anxiety. Trying to cope alone can magnify these feelings and is not sustainable.
Even when on the path of uncertainty, we can better embrace the unknown, one step at a time, when supported by others.
Choose hope
Moving forward does not always happen in the way we envision it. One day, it means getting out of bed and taking a shower, while another time it can be walking to the park.
Create realistic goals. Moving forward is not defined by accomplishment but by the intention to do better.
It is about choosing hope, making space to adapt, creating new possibilities, and holding on to the belief that tomorrow is a new day.
In all of this, I have discovered a silver lining: The little girl inside me is still here, still full of wonder for today and hope for tomorrow.
And I believe she exists within everyone whose life has been shaped by MS. She is the spark that ignites our courage and the burning flame that inspires hope.
Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
