Energize Workout

Before being diagnosed with MS, Rick never really thought much about the important role diet and exercise play in keeping your body and mind healthy. Since his diagnosis, he's lost weight, and worked with his doctor to find a diet and exercise plan that works for him. He strives to do something physically active every day, whether it's doing cardio workouts, lifting weights, or just going for a walk. To Rick, living well with multiple sclerosis means thinking about the big picture and focusing on total mind and body wellness. To him, fitness is just one part of the puzzle, but he thinks you should also remember that diet and a positive attitude can help keep you mentally and physically healthy.

Ever since she found a treatment plan and lifestyle that works for her, Stacey has been motivated to keep moving regularly — and not to let multiple sclerosis defeat her. Staying active every day, even if it's going for a short walk, is very important to Stacey. Adapting her routine, depending on how she feels in the morning, is how she is able to stay active. And she encourages others to do the same. Stacey says the most important thing is listening to your body and giving it what it needs. Stacey allows her positive attitude, strong resolve and "keeping it real" philosophy to provide the structure for her life.

To Stacey, living well with multiple sclerosis means being able to do the things she likes to do every day — like driving her children to school, watching them play sports, cooking for her family, and just spending quality time with them. Stacey believes that everyone has the power within themselves to have a good or a bad day. And she chooses to make each day a good day, without letting multiple sclerosis get in the way of her life.

He noticed that he could not remember what he had just said or was preparing to say, which was very challenging for a litigator.

Jeffrey was also an avid ice speed skater, and found he was no longer able to skate without putting himself or others in danger. In the early 2000s, Jeffrey took charge and talked to his doctor about ways he could manage his multiple sclerosis. After finding a treatment plan that worked for him in 2000, he has been able to stay active and focus on total mind and body wellness. While his physical ability isn't what it used to be, Jeffrey is now able to ice skate a few times a week and keep his body active.

Jeffrey says that living well with multiple sclerosis means doing something about it: "Multiple sclerosis will not go away by itself, so it's on you to take charge of your life and learn how to help manage your symptoms." He says that even if it's small, he still tries to do something physically active every day to know that he's still in control. Since retiring, Jeffrey has dedicated his time to supporting others with multiple sclerosis. He has written two books about the cognitive impediments of MS, and is a spokesperson for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. In November 2010, Jeffery was inducted into the National Multiple Sclerosis Society 2010 Volunteer Hall of Fame in Advocacy. He is very outspoken about his disease and the cognitive challenges he has faced as a result.

After her symptoms subsided, she had to learn to walk all over again. This experience has shown Jana the importance of total mind and body wellness.

Regular exercise has allowed her to remain positive. It has reminded her that she can choose how she wants to live with multiple sclerosis — and not let it defeat her. Jana goes on walks with her dogs every day and knows that even the smallest bit of exercise may help her in the long run. She also enjoys bike rides on the days when she feels more energized.

To Jana, living well with multiple sclerosis means taking care of yourself, knowing your limits and trying to do the most you can. She believes that will help you feel better in the long run. Jana encourages others with multiple sclerosis to stay positive, because half the battle is believing you can do something — before you set out to do it.