Multiple Sclerosis and Breast Cancer and A Lesson in Love

Cancer. I am the first person in my family to have it, just as I am the only member who has multiple sclerosis.

Life is like that sometimes. Much like a board game, we spin the spinner and we get what we get. I always understood that much. I’ve never been a “why me” kind of person, so there was no anger or despair at this latest turn of events.

My husband and my children would stand by my side, of that I had no doubt. You can’t ask for much more than that.

We often hear about people diagnosed with life-threatening illness and suddenly realizing how precious a gift life is and how simple our needs truly are. My husband and I didn’t need that wake-up call. We have been grateful for each day that we are able to share our love and for our many good fortunes. We were — and are — a couple who feel and express our appreciation liberally. We take nothing for granted.

If there was one thing we may not have previously understood, it is that we are not as alone as we thought we were. My husband and I live apart from our children, parents, siblings, and extended family, who are scattered throughout the country. We visit with individual loved ones, but rarely have the opportunity for large family gatherings. The miles that separate us cause a disconnect and feelings of isolation.

So I did get a wake-up call after all. It turns out that although we may be geographically separated from family, when we hit rough waters, all hands were on deck. We learned that we have a strong support system, one that will never leave one of their own behind enemy lines. We learned that physical distance is surmountable and time is relative. We learned we are part of a strong family unit, one that stretches from my husband’s family to my own, all around the country, infusing us with love and support.

Multiple sclerosis… breast cancer… they are not insurmountable. Love is everything. I am alive, gloriously alive, and enjoying an abundance of love. I am a very fortunate woman indeed.

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Writer Ann Pietrangelo is a regular contributor to Care2 Healthy & Green Living and Care2 Causes, and is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors and The Author’s Guild. Follow on Twitter @AnnPietrangelo

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Kerry M.

8:57AM PDT on Mar 19, 2011

I too have MS and IDC stage 2 breast cancer. I am touched by your strength through adversity. Thanks for sharing :)

send a green star

Barbara E.

11:51PM PST on Dec 4, 2010

What a wonderful positive outlook on life. :-)

Claudia P.

8:51AM PST on Nov 27, 2010

agreat reminder. Inspirational. Much love to you and yours.

Elizabeth J.

5:28AM PST on Nov 18, 2010

Thank you very much for sharing. I sincerely pray for you and your family and especially for the speedy recovery. MAY GOD BLESS YOU DEAR.

Past Member .

11:32PM PST on Nov 17, 2010

i hope that your recovery is swift and complete. you and your family are very fortunate to have each other. take care of yourself and this is a time for kindness.

Christin B.

9:48PM PST on Nov 17, 2010

I always appreciate when you share your stories and wisdom! They have been most helpful.

I just came back from a procedure that is helpful to patients with MS. I went for testing in July and I was found to have 5/5 narrowed or blocked veins. On Nov 15/10, I had a procedure that opened these veins.

Some people have miraculous improvements, some only minor or come later and a few notice no change. Although I seem to fit into the 2nd category, I notice the numbness in my fingers seems to be going away, I have more energy and I have colour back in my face - no more vampire look for me!

The procedure wasn't unbearable but it hurt a bit!. Not something I'd like to subject myself to on a regular basis but if it helps even a little, I'm happy.

They give you Valium and it's a simple, relatively non-invasive, in/out procedure. I was in the procedure for about an hour and then laid on my back for about an hour or two while the nurses monitored the incision and my vitals. Just precaution.

My feet are still numb and balance is off as it has been. I thought the other day it was improving and it may have but it is going to take time.

So, with that said... rest, proper diet and exercise which I'll hopefully increase as I go! No marathons or step classes just yet but I'm working on that. Even though I am a skeptical person, I still suggest people living with MS look into this procedure. Send me a message if you have questions.

susan b.

9:42AM PST on Nov 17, 2010

Dear Ann, you sound like a very brave person surrounded by supportive family. That's fantastic.
However, I would implore you and other sufferers to PLEASE read The China Study. That's all.

Alicia N.

12:10AM PST on Nov 17, 2010

Thank you Ann P. for sharing your story with us. I am sending you the best vibes and prayers for fast recovery. GOD bless you and your beautiful family.

ana p.

8:41PM PST on Nov 16, 2010

BEST WISHES! I HOPE YOU GET WELL. ALL GOD BLESSINGS FOR YOU!!

KayL N.

8:35PM PST on Nov 16, 2010

One of the worst things about being an immigrant is that you when you're ill, unless you've had time to make friends -- REAL friends -- you're alone without a family. It's also bad to know that your family is gathering in support of a beloved relative (in this case, my aunt) who is in the final stages of cancer, and not be able to afford to fly back to your home country to say good-bye... It's breaking my heart, right now. Thank goodness for good friend!