In life with relapsing-remitting MS, I am my own best advocate
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Dawn Darragh makes time for the things that bring her joy. (Courtesy of Dawn Darragh)
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.
Growing up as a military brat, I was used to change. Having to move every few years prepared me for diversity. Having to make friends quickly at the new schools at the military bases taught me to be open to change. Even after I became a young mother and wife, nothing could have prepared me for being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Shortly after having my second child in 2003, I began to experience extreme fatigue, dizziness, and weakness. Exhausted, I just knew that something wasn’t right within my body. After a couple of years of prodding, a doctor finally listened to me.
However, due to the facial numbness and hearing loss on my left side, the possible diagnosis was an acoustic neuroma, or a benign tumor of the ear canal. MS was never mentioned. But in March 2006, I finally had an MRI and was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS.
Imagine my shock and sadness when I was told that I had MS. What followed was a whirlwind of appointments and discussions about the various treatment options. I’d barely had time to process the diagnosis and felt both relief and anger about finally having an answer as to why I had been so ill. The diagnosis meant grieving the young mother who was a runner and always had energy to play with her children. I grieved the wife who was up for a spontaneous evening out on the town. I had to start planning my activities around my energy levels and MS symptoms.
With the love and support of my family, and with disease-modifying therapies, I have maintained my positive attitude 20 years later. The most important lesson I have learned is to advocate for yourself. I am fortunate to still be classified as relapsing-remitting after two decades of living with MS. I have good and bad days, but I try to focus on the good ones, especially when I am down. The best advice I can give is to listen to your body and be your own advocate. After all, you know your body the best.
