Vitalize Workout

After trying a few different therapies, Cathy was able to find a treatment that worked for her, and has helped her tremendously. As a mother, it's important to Cathy that she is able to keep up with her kids and spend time with them. She also likes to do other physical things, such as taking short walks.

Cathy believes that living well with multiple sclerosis means remembering that you can, and should, remain active, even if you do smaller things or have physical limitations. Cathy considers her multiple sclerosis a special gift, as it teaches her valuable life lessons and allows her to focus on her abilities rather than disabilities. This is a lesson that she tries to impart to others who struggle with chronic illnesses and mobility issues. Cathy believes that overcoming life's challenges is something everyone has to deal with and that having multiple sclerosis has only given her added strength as a way to get through those challenges.

Jerry maintains a healthy diet, takes vitamins and stays with a physical therapy routine to help him function in his daily life without constantly living in fear of his disease.

To Jerry, living well with multiple sclerosis means maintaining a proper diet, exercising and getting out to enjoy life. Jerry stays active by doing little things around the house like changing light switches or doing a load of dishes. He stresses the important role that staying active plays in continuing to be able to do enjoyable things — like chasing your grandkids or pushing them on a swing. He finds strength through multiple sclerosis support groups, which have helped him realize he is not alone in his struggles. Jerry believes that hope is his biggest ally in the fight against multiple sclerosis. And he looks forward to a brighter future with a world free of multiple sclerosis.

The plan was key in helping her to gain more energy and swim competitively again. Leslie teaches swimming, and with her masters' class, swam across the Hudson River to raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Leslie believes that living well with multiple sclerosis means loving yourself — even when things seem hard — and doing all you can to become a stronger and healthier person. Leslie stresses the importance of eating well and exercising. She's had to adapt her diet and exercise plans to accommodate her multiple sclerosis, but has found that the more she pushes herself, the more she can do.

Erin worked with her doctor to develop the best treatment regimen and lifestyle for her. To her, this is why she is able to continue doing the things she loves — like golfing and yoga — despite her multiple sclerosis.

Erin's diagnosis with multiple sclerosis has made her realize how important it is to take care of herself and not to take her health for granted. For Erin, living well with multiple sclerosis means taking care of yourself, eating right, getting enough sleep, knowing your limits, exercising and trying to stay as stress-free as possible. Erin actively promotes multiple sclerosis awareness and has started a Facebook group for newly diagnosed patients. These days, Erin plays golf, rides her bike at least twice a week, and regularly walks or jogs.