My journey with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) started with something that seemed small, tingling and numbness in my left hand. At first, it was easy to brush off, but when the sensation didn’t go away, I began a series of doctor visits, physical therapy appointments, and follow-ups with my primary care provider trying to find answers.

For months, nothing fully explained what was happening.

Then, somewhat unexpectedly, my chiropractor suggested ordering an MRI. That scan became the turning point. The images showed suspicious lesions on my brain and on my spine, something that can be associated with MS. That led to a series of additional tests.

The diagnostic process came with its own challenges. After undergoing a lumbar puncture, I developed a spinal fluid leak, a complication that can sometimes occur after the procedure. I also learned that I fall into a rare group of people who develop a delayed allergic reaction to MRI contrast dye, about 24 hours after receiving it. It made the process a little more complicated than expected, but it also made me incredibly grateful for the medical teams helping navigate it all.

On May 29, 2025, I was officially diagnosed with MS.

The silver lining in my story is that my MS was caught very early. Many people live with symptoms for years, sometimes close to a decade, before receiving a diagnosis, often after significant damage has already occurred. Because my lesions were caught early, my care team was able to begin treatment right away.

MS is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the protective coating around nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This can interrupt the signals that control everything from movement to sensation.

The good news is that treatment options have improved dramatically. I’m currently on one of the latest disease-modifying therapies designed to slow or stop MS progression, with the goal of preventing new lesions and keeping my nervous system healthy long-term.

I’m also participating in a research study through UCHealth, which means I have an incredibly supportive and hands-on medical team guiding my care. Being part of research not only gives me access to cutting-edge treatment, but also helps contribute to future breakthroughs for others living with MS.

Thank you for supporting this cause. Together, we can help drive the research, care, and progress that will change lives., and research better treatments, better understanding, and progress that will change lives.