MEET KATIE IRISH
When were you diagnosed with MS and what was the first thing you did after you found out? I was diagnosed in May of 2013 & the first thing I did was Google "multiple sclerosis" to discover what exactly this disease was.
What advice would you give to someone just finding out they have MS? Know you are not alone - there are many of us diagnosed living strong, heathy lives. Reach out to others in the MS community to see what resources are available to you.
What is something good that came out of your MS diagnosis? I am much more patient with myself and with others and feel an incredible gratefulness for my family and friends who I have bonded with in an entirely new way; these are the people who are able to recognize that I am the same person, just living my life at a different pace, in a different way.
What is your morning routine? Gym - working out makes me feel incredibly healthy. While I always tried to be healthy, knowing now how essential my physical well-being is makes me try very hard not to miss a day - at the very least I will go for a walk!
How has MS affected your daily life? I was diagnosed within six months of getting separated from my ex-husband and ultimately divorced. Being diagnosed with MS began an entirely new chapter of my life - one in which I was forced to become stronger and smarter. This did not happen all at once, rather I remind myself to take one step forward and that progress takes time.
Can you remember your saddest memory of your life? Getting diagnosed was pretty sad - and shocking.
Can you remember the happiest moment of your life? I did not go through college in 4 years, rather I took time off to drive cross country, came back East, then found work for a university. When I was laid off I decided now was the time. When I realized that I really had completed my BA, I cried tears of joy.
What is the greatest achievement you have done since being diagnosed and how were you able to achieve it? I started a monthly poetry series at a local cafe! We are in our second year and I absolutely love it.
Any other thoughts you would like to share? This is an incredible platform to connect with others - I thank Wendy for establishing such a positive network which encourages patients to continue to climb!