2017 has arrived. Welcome to a new year! First, I would like to say thanks for allowing me the opportunity to share my MS journey with you. Your comments, emails and words of encouragement are appreciated. 2016 was an eventful year, indeed. I have learned much about the disease…
Patiently Awakened
— Teresa Wright-Johnson
Teresa Wright-Johnson is a congenital heart disease survivor and an MS warrior. Diagnosed in November 2014 with MS, Teresa relies on her faith, family, and friends. As a person with chronic illnesses, Teresa has learned the importance of being both patient in nature and present in each moment. It has also led her to boldly live her truth and walk in her purpose. Teresa’s column will focus on her personal lessons and experiences with MS. Teresa hopes her column will inspire and encourage others to stand in the midst of adversity. She believes that even in the course of illness, we can find greater meaning to our existence and use our light to shine through our darkest hour.
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“Sweep around your own front door before you try to sweep around mine.” These lyrics are from a spiritual song on my playlist. They’ve challenged me to assess myself while simultaneously liberating me from the judgment of others. Life happens on its own terms, and the only…
I was thinking of writing about another subject a few days ago and then, as usual, life happened. I learned of the passing of a former colleague recently. I did not know her well, but her spirit was infectious. She had been fighting colorectal cancer for 12 years. As…
I had the pleasure of being invited to speak and share my story at an event this week. Although I speak often, each encounter leaves me in awe. I am continuously reminded of the numbers of people with whom my story resonates. I also am cognizant of the lasting…
Those of us with “invisible illnesses” are no strangers to this subject. Most of us have experienced situations in which we were judged, insulted and scorned based on people’s opinions and perceptions. We are told that we don’t look sick and we are placed in situations where we feel…
Last week I wrote about surviving the holiday blues. This week I am going to focus solely on giving thanks. November 20 marked the 16-year anniversary of my second open-heart surgery. November also marks the second year of my multiple sclerosis diagnosis. As I reflect on my life, all…
We are officially entering into the holiday season. Thanksgiving is almost here and Christmas will follow. The stores are filled with decorations. Holiday sales are advertised and children are excitedly preparing their Christmas lists. In addition, we will receive, and may even send the proverbial “Happy Holidays” greeting cards.
Several people have asked me why I choose to publicly share my multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and experiences with chronic illnesses. Some ask in admiration, stating how they wish they were comfortable enough to also do so, while others ask in judgment and condemnation. I have been told that people…
This photo was taken more than a year ago and I remember it as if it were yesterday. There was so much going on behind the smile captured in this picture. Smoky Robinson serenaded about “the tears of a clown.” I definitely played the role of the clown that…
One of my favorite gospel songs is “Stand” by Donnie McClurkin. There’s a verse that says, “after you’ve done all you can, you just stand.” My spirit reacts to this song each time I hear it. It satiates my soul. I love music and believe it is a gift.
“In sickness and in health.” These words are said by everyone embarking upon the exciting journey of marriage. Most are in love, excited about the future and hopeful they have found their happily ever after. Many of us repeat the words “in sickness and in health” without much thought,…
I have been under the care of physicians for as long as I can remember. Cardiologists, primary and several others. In the past few years, added to this list is a neurologist. I must say that I have been fortunate. I am ministered to by caring, esteemed, inspiring and…
In MS patient columnist Teresa Wright-Johnson’s debut column on Multiple Sclerosis News Today, she introduces herself and discusses the pain and uncertainty of her diagnosis. She also shares how spirituality and reflection are leading her to overcome the diagnosis and move forward. Hello everyone! Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share…
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