After my MS diagnosis, I focused on becoming healthier — for me

Amy Behimer sits in a rocking chair in her home. (Photos courtesy of Amy Behimer)

Day 7 of 31

This is Amy Behimer’s story:

When I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), I thought my chance at a healthy, happy life was gone. As a pharmacist, the way I had always understood health — defined as the absence of symptoms or disease — meant that my officially chronic, progressive, neurodegenerative diagnosis would make it near impossible. But as I started to process what living with MS could look like, I realized that if I didn’t redefine health for myself, I might never feel healthy again.

Behimer poses for a photo with her husband Ben, right.

That shift in thinking changed everything. I went from asking “How can I manage my disease?” to “How can I still create health — even with MS?” And that primed my brain to start looking for answers.

I turned my attention to the things I could control, and then focused on building my emotional, mental, physical, gut, metabolic, spiritual, and all-around autoimmune health. More specifically, I focused on the seemingly way too simple habits that had me feeling good. I also began to see balance, not perfection, as a cornerstone of well-being.

These changes weren’t drastic overhauls. They were — and still are — tiny, consistent habits that compound day after day. They’re helping me not only feel better in the short term, but are my best shot at functioning better in the long term, too.

Behimer holds up a coffee mug bearing an inspirational message.

What are these changes? A counter push-up to remind myself that I am strong. An extra vegetable (or four) to fuel my body. Time to rest when I needed it. Scheduling dates with people who make me laugh, even if it is, at times, through tears. Taking on challenges to feel proud of myself for how I show up as a person with MS. Over time, these intentional choices don’t just help me live with MS — I believe they make me healthier than I’ve ever been before.

Living with MS has taught me to savor the ups, which helps to better prepare me for the inevitable downs that come with being human. It’s about how we think, feel, and act that creates a life I’m excited to live. It’s about creating a definition of health that makes room for joy, connection, and growth, even in the face of challenges.

My diagnosis now shapes the work I do. As a coach, I help others living with MS reimagine what’s possible for their health. Together, we focus on habits that are simple, sustainable, and aligned with their vision for a healthy and happy life — because feeling and functioning better is always possible.

While I would never order this diagnosis off a menu, I’m grateful for the clarity it’s given me to still go after a healthy and happy life. MS taught me that I can choose to create it every day, one tiny, meaningful habit at a time.

In recognition of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month in March, the MS Community Spotlight campaign features a series of stories highlighting the real-life experiences of people affected by MS, written in their own words. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Pinterest for more stories like this, using the hashtag #MSSpotlight, or read the full series.