Throughout March, Multiple Sclerosis News Today is recognizing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Month through a variety of stories representing different perspectives on life with MS. These stories highlight some of the unique challenges of living with MS, as well as stories of hope, inspiration, and other topics that help to generate awareness among the MS community. Follow along with the series here or visit us on Facebook, Instagram, X, or Pinterest using the hashtag #MSSpotlight.

My niece’s diagnosis of MS brought us closer together

From left, Adela Puente and her niece, Desiree Lama, spend time together in downtown San Antonio. (Photos courtesy of Desiree Lama) Day 31 of 31 This is Adela Puente’s story: Lama and Puente share a hug at Desiree’s college graduation. Being the youngest of six, I always wished…

A mother’s perspective on MS: Accepting help is hard to do

Sheila Hofmeister and her husband, Rick, stand behind the wheelchair of their son Ben Hofmeister, whose three sons, Sterling, Jule, and Monte, are pictured from left to right. (Photos courtesy of Ben Hofmeister) Day 30 of 31 This is Sheila Hofmeister’s story: Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today columnist…

Learning to heal was an important part of my MS journey

Natasha Quariab relaxes in her garden in Amman, Jordan, in 2023. (Photos courtesy of Natasha Quariab) Day 29 of 31 This is Natasha Quariab’s story: I woke up and tried to move my right leg. Nothing. My heart pounded. This couldn’t be happening. Not here, alone in a snowy…

Embracing my role as an MS advocate

Denise Schneiders embraces her role as an MS advocate. (Photos courtesy of Denise Schneiders) Day 28 of 31 This is Denise Schneiders’ story: My life changed on March 12, 2024, with three words: “You have MS.” As an athlete, wife, mother, teacher, coach, and business owner, I had always…

I’ve found my voice and I’m making it heard for the MS community

  Hollie Amadio meets with Stefanie Barone, a staffer for U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-MD, to advocate for the Safe Step Act. (Photos courtesy of Hollie Amadio) Day 27 of 31 This is Hollie Amadio’s story: “Hollie, you’re having a stroke from eating all those chocolate eggs!” my dad…

Accepting my new normal with MS after a series of misdiagnoses

Dimika V. Cavalier is shown in a photo she uses for advocacy work. (Photos courtesy of Dimika V. Cavalier) Day 26 of 31 This is Dimika V. Cavalier’s story: My journey with multiple sclerosis (MS) began in my early 30s. I was having episodes of vertigo that would…

What I’ve learned from my aunt, who has secondary progressive MS

A 3-year-old Chris Delemater smothers his aunt, Jenn Powell, on the couch, along with Toby the dog. (Photos courtesy of Jenn Powell) Day 25 of 31 This is Chris Delemater’s story: What is it like to know someone with multiple sclerosis (MS)? Have I learned anything from someone…

Mother knows best: Advocating for young people living with MS

Karly Isaacson’s mother, Donna Ball, laces up Karly’s dress for her wedding last summer. (Photos courtesy of Karly Isaacson) Day 24 of 31 This is Karly Isaacson’s story: When I think of empowerment and multiple sclerosis (MS), I think of my mom. I had my first MS…

With MS, strength has nothing to do with being OK

Michelle Lesmeister posed for this headshot in February 2025. (Photos courtesy of Michelle Lesmeister) Day 23 of 31 This is Michelle Lesmeister’s story: “You’re the strongest person I know — you will be OK.” Lesmeister takes her dog Barrett for an afternoon walk. Who wants to be just…

My day, interrupted by MS

Ena Salcinovic celebrates her birthday three years after her MS diagnosis. (Photos courtesy of Ena Salcinovic) Day 22 of 31 This is Ena Salcinovic’s story: Saturday. Finally. A good day. I still believe that even though I overslept and missed the Red Cross and our weekly international cooking. I…