Living a full life as a mom with MS
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Nathalie Steelman is a proud mom to two young children. (Courtesy of Nathalie Steelman)
In recognition of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month in March, the MS Awareness Month 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 #MSAwarenessMonth, or read the full series.
When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at 27, it felt like my entire future slipped out from under me. I remember sitting in the doctor’s office, hearing the words but not fully grasping what they meant. All I could think was: what happens to my life now? What happens to the plans I had? At that age, you feel like everything is just beginning, and in a moment, I felt like everything was being rewritten.
Steelman, seated on an exam table, says that with time, she found a supportive medical care team. (Courtesy of Nathalie Steelman)
Those first months were confusing, emotional, and overwhelming. But slowly, with time, I found my footing. I found the right medical team: people who truly listened, supported me, and worked with me rather than talking at me. And eventually, I found the medication that fit me, my body, and my lifestyle. Once that clicked into place, I began to thrive in ways I didn’t think were possible in those early days.
Fast forward 10 years, and I’m now a mom to two beautiful babies: a 2-year-old and an 8-month-old who have brought more joy, purpose, and strength into my life than I could ever explain. Both of my pregnancies and even breastfeeding kept me in remission. My body — this same body I once felt betrayed by — protected me through two pregnancies and allowed me to become the mother I dreamed of being. That alone has healed parts of me I didn’t know still needed healing.
Living with MS for a decade has taught me so much about resilience, but also about gentleness. I’ve learned to navigate the healthcare system, advocate for myself, ask questions, and push for what I need. I’ve learned that support matters, whether it’s from family, friends, physicians, or an online community of people who simply get it. I’ve learned that positivity isn’t about pretending everything is fine. It’s about deciding that you can keep going, even when it’s hard.
And I’ve learned the power of a good nap. Truly, rest is medicine, and giving myself permission to slow down is one of the greatest acts of self-love I practice.
Most importantly, MS has taught me grace — grace for my body, grace for the days when I don’t feel strong, and grace for the version of myself who was scared and unsure at 27. At that age, I didn’t know what the next 10 years would bring, but I do now, and they have been full of love, growth, strength, and proof that an MS diagnosis does not erase your future.
I’m living mine fully, proudly, and with so much hope for the years to come.
