How I’ve embraced a holistic approach to living with MS

Latifa Janahi takes a five-day course of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in her body. (Photos courtesy of Latifa Janahi)

Day 19 of 31

This is Latifa Janahi’s story:

I am a woman from Bahrain Island who’s passionate about technology and baking. After working in the tech field for 10 years, I decided to leave my job and pursue my dream of opening a small bakery. However, when the pandemic hit, it affected my business, like many others. Despite the challenges, I found ways to spread joy by creating beautiful birthday packages for people who couldn’t have large celebrations.

As time passed, I became anxious about my bakery’s finances. I struggled to sleep, my mind constantly racing. Eventually, I started experiencing a strange pain in my scalp and a burning sensation in my foot. I visited doctors, but they couldn’t diagnose my symptoms, suggesting it was likely related to stress and advising me to relax and try yoga.

Janahi searches for information that can lead her to the right pathway in her healing journey.

I wasn’t convinced, even though I knew my life was stressful. I insisted on seeing a neurologist and requested a brain MRI, suspecting something might be wrong with my brain. I felt incredibly fatigued, nearly falling asleep just hours after waking.

When the results came back, the doctor’s expression was serious. I asked, “Is it a brain tumor? Do I have cancer?”

He replied, “No, it’s an autoimmune disease called multiple sclerosis [MS]. Don’t be afraid. There are many medications now that can help stabilize it, and lots of people are living normal lives.”

I was relieved it wasn’t cancer, but I knew nothing about MS.

So, I began researching the disease, reading stories of others diagnosed with MS, and discovering a supportive online community for newly diagnosed people.

I took an online course on autoimmune diets and learned how lifestyle changes could benefit the body. I began the autoimmune protocol diet, eliminating and reintroducing foods according to the guidelines, and worked with a health coach. This approach helped me manage my MS symptoms.

Janahi practices spirituality and mindfulness while hiking.

I also created an Instagram account to share my experience and support others newly diagnosed with MS.

Everything seemed to be going smoothly — until a major family issue triggered my first relapse, and I developed optic neuritis. I started a course of corticosteroids, and that’s when I realized managing MS wasn’t just about medication and diet; it also required me to focus on mental health, exercise, and spirituality.

I began cognitive behavioral therapy to address the negative and inaccurate thoughts that MS patients often face. Emotional stress is a major trigger for relapses. I also worked on balance and eye exercises. Spirituality became an integral part of my journey, with a deep belief that God was guiding and supporting me through this challenge.

I even returned to work at my bakery. MS hasn’t stopped me from pursuing my dreams; it’s helped me see the world differently and be more mindful when interacting with my customers. I can better understand their health conditions and special requests, and create items suitable for people with allergies.

I believe MS was a wake-up call for me — a reminder to take care of my emotional, mental, and physical health while focusing on my purpose: helping others and creating a peaceful world. Taking care of myself is vital not only to overcoming MS, but also to living a fulfilling life.

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.