Pain and relief: My MS diagnosis finally gave me answers
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Chris Russell is seen recovering in the hospital after his first MS relapse in 2024. (Photos courtesy of Chris Russell)
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.
Editor’s note: This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org. Internationally, find a suicide prevention helpline at findahelpline.com.
It was both utter pain and relief when the doctor came into my hospital room Nov. 3, 2024, to tell me, “I’m so sorry, you have multiple sclerosis.” It was simultaneously the most heartbreaking news, yet the biggest sigh of relief, because I finally had an answer to why my brain and body had been rebelling against me. I wasn’t crazy!
Russell stands between his sisters, Adrienne, left, and Jennifer, right, at an MS Walk in Denver in June 2025.
For years, I had been an actor, yoga instructor, and hockey player, among so many other things. My life looked good on paper.
However, I didn’t know why I’d battled with depression and suicidal ideation for the last few years, or why my memory was slipping. So remembering lines was harder, and hitting the correct choreography didn’t come as second nature as it used to. I chalked it up to getting older, or at least that’s what I told myself. But it made a lot of sense when my MS specialist got hold of my MRI and said, “We can’t say for certain, but it looks as if these lesions have been present and forming for the last 6-7 years.”
I immediately did as much research as my brain could handle, and while knowing there is no cure, I learned I could at least slow my MS down. I do my best to stay healthy through continued physical movement, in part through my job as a stretch therapist — essentially helping people do yoga while lying on my table or the floor — which my yoga background put me in a prime position for. I also do meditation, mindfulness, and breath work.
Russell is seen white water rafting in Montana last year with First Descents, a nonprofit that provides adventure experiences.
A big difference was changing my diet. I used to be able to eat anything, but I’m now focusing on lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. I still cheat, though rarely, with the foods I was raised on and loved, like pasta, cheese, or steak. But the difference I’ve seen since eating cleaner is noticeable with decreased inflammation and less limping.
The incredible support of my family and friends, including the friends I’ve made since the diagnosis, and some with the nonprofit organization First Descents, has been more than this guy could have asked for. First Descents offers opportunities nationwide that open doors to so many outdoor adventures, as well as providing meditation and slow-down experiences.
The unpredictability of what each day will bring and which MS symptoms will show up when constantly keeps me on my toes, but having my background and awareness of the mind, body, and spirit gives me a better sense of how to move forward with this unpredictable disease. Stay active, keep breathing deep, and God bless you!
