After being diagnosed with Relapse Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) November of 2018, I spiraled into depression from finally knowing what was wrong with me after so many years and then not recognizing what's next. I didn’t know how to deal with the constant flare-ups and side effects of the steroids; I ballooned to over 300lbs at my darkest time.
I decided to fight back. I started taking my prescribed disease modifying therapy (DMT), I then researched diets and changed to a diet that has fewer foods with little to no inflammatory properties. I also added physical activity to my life. The combination of the 3 changed my mindset on having MS. I felt mentally and physically stronger, and it was then I knew I was made strong and no matter what I could not give up!
I decided to use my passion for candle making, to help give back to others living with MS. When learning about MS I came across The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MS Focus), and saw all they ways they work to help individuals living with MS, live their best lives. Candle-making has been my way of coping with my MS diagnosis, and making candles for a cause has been the most enjoyable experience through it all.