Thriving Over Surviving Multiple Sclerosis

But let's be real, MS presents difficulties. Having hope that things will get better, that there is love and kindness in the world, and that hope is in each of us makes a difference for the good. We can not hope blindly. We have to choose a course of action and stick to it. Despite the delays and setbacks along the journey hope carries us along while ersisting with an adventurous course of action. I call it a gritty hope. These are the words of Justine Calcagno who was diagnosed with MS in 2016. She is an ultrarunning non-profit researcher with a Ph.D. in psychology. She is passionate about trail running, outdoor pursuits, yoga, cycling, and supporting and empowering others, particularly women and feminine-identified people. Her approach to living with MS is a combination of embodiment and evidence. She hopes that she can inspire others to identify their challenges to overcome and become more joyful and confident through the process of achieving their goals. She also an advocate through the MS Society. Since having MS, Justine has experimented on herself as an "N of 1". She is committed to a plant-based (vegan) and alcohol-free diet. Let's chat it up with Justine!  Instagram: RunwithMS  runwithms@gmail.com Instagram: thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

What is your greatest fear? Before MS, mine was probably superficial. Fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that something or someone is dangerous and likely to cause pain (physical, emotional, etc.). Fear can be intense and sometimes overpower us if we don't have the tools to work through the emotions it brings. Mary Virgi does not let fear hold her back! She leans into her core values of family and faith to climb out of negative spaces. At the time we recorded this, Mary was 14 weeks pregnant. And releasing this episode she is now about to have her baby. She is surely thriving! Let's chat it up with Mary! Instagram: @dontmswithmindfulmary Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Did you know that approximately 50% of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis are also diagnosed with depression? This is 3X more likely than in the general population. Managing mental health can be complicated especially when you also have an unpredictable autoimmune disease. Alyssa Gonzalez bravely shares her journey with MS and mental health. She was diagnosed with pediatric Multiple Sclerosis and just that process alone was overwhelming. There is so much to chat about with this gorgeous and positive Instagram Influencer. Let's chat it up with Aly Katelyn! Instagram: @aly_katelyn Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Have you ever experienced Crap Gap? You may know it as the end of dosing interval or the weaning-off effect. This refers to the period of time between Ocrevus infusions when you might feel a worsening of MS symptoms. This may include things such as Fatigue, cognitive fog, motor function or balance problems. You know... all the things! Kellie Batts, who has had MS since 2016 shares her experience with Crap Gap as well as her experience over the last seven years with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Let's chat it up with Kellie!  Instagram: @_livinglikek https://www.joinuplift.co/ UpLift accepts most insurances and copays start at $25.    Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Has your multiple sclerosis diagnosis influenced the course of your life? Has it shifted your passions in a certain direction? Many people say that everything happens for a reason. Would being diagnosed with a chronic illness happen for a reason? Justin Loizos believes his MS diagnosis has further grown his passions. Let's chat it up with Justin.  www.justcompassion.ca justmsshow.buzzsprout.com Instagram: @justinmloizos, @justcompassioncannabis, @justmultiplesclerosis   https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast  

Have you ever had a massage? Not one from a friend or lover, I'm talking from a professional masseuse? For many, massage becomes a regular part of their health routine. Massage can help with anxiety, depression, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia, nerve issues, muscle stiffness, inflammation, and more!  Angela Landeros shares how massage therapy became her passion. As someone diagnosed with MS and a massage therapist, she knows firsthand how therapeutic it can be. This equestrian and author shares her experience with multiple sclerosis and beyond. Let's chat it up with Angela!    IG: @Angela_Landeros_Heals YouTube: @Angela_Landeros_Heals https://angelalanderosheals.wordpress.com IG: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com          

Remaining curious is essential, especially when seeking answers to improve our health. Asking questions is necessary, but challenging when we don't know what questions to ask. Empowering ourselves with the knowledge and strength required to tackle our daily struggles with chronic illness. Fitness Coach Marnie Bothmer, who thrives with MS, knows that curiosity is necessary to open her mind to other ways of viewing the world. Let's chat it up with Marnie! marniebothmer@gmail.com Instagram: @mbstrength4life www.marniebothmer.com https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast  

When have you felt the most fear in your life? Did you know there are seven deadly fears? Fear of being alone Fear of connecting (lack of) Fear of abandonment Fear of self-assertion Fear of lack of recognition Fear of failure and success Fear of being fully alive    Rachel Larsen shares how she moved beyond fear and anger to embrace vulnerability and live her best life.  She removed herself from isolation and now fully enjoys her life with or without MS. Let's chat it up with Rachel.  www.wontstopsmyelin.com Facebook and Instagram: @wontstopsmyelin  email: wontstopsmyelin@gmail.com     Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast http://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com                                                                                       

Would you consider yourself emotionally well? Do we even know what that feels like or should feel like? Jane Gould has found what emotional wellness is for her. She shares with us her 20-year journey with MS, what she has learned about herself, and how she finds peace in her every day life. Let's chat it up with Jane! Twitter: @ABCsofMS Substack: https://abcms.substack.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Many of us searched for answers for a long time before finding out we have multiple sclerosis. Once you had the knowledge, what did you do with it? Knowing is just the first step. Alex Sokoloff uses his core value of self-discipline to stick to his routines after learning many lessons throughout his MS experience. Let's chat it up with Alex! www.facebook.com/alexsokoloff.me/ Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

What is one change in your life you would like to make? Just one change that would improve the quality of your life. One change that would make you proud of yourself. Maybe this episode with Gillian Crooks will inspire you to do just that. Or maybe you have already made a change and you can relate. Once wheelchair-bound, this marathon runner has a lot to share about having high expectations and focusing on things within our control. Let's chat it up with Gillian!  Instagram: @gillian.eattobeatms www.mygroovewellness.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Being kind to yourself even if you don't have MS is a struggle for many people. I am super hard on myself. But it is so important to treat yourself with kindness when diagnosed with a chronic illness. We can not blame ourselves! Joanna Bolouri is a bestselling rom-com author. Her cat Twitch reluctantly allows her and her daughter to live with him in Glasgow, Scotland. She advocates for kindness. Let's chat it up with Joanna.  Twitter: @scribbles78 Facebook page: jbolouri Instagram: @joannabolouri Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast http://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Episode 100! And who better to talk to than Dr. Terry Wahls! A board certified internal medicine physician who conducts clinical trials testing the efficacy of diet lifestyle to treat multiple sclerosis. She is the author of The Wahls Protocol: A Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles.  Sign up for Dr. Wahls newsletter and get the one page summary of the diet that is used in her clinics and clinical trials to restore cellular health. Great for the refrigerator. www.terrywahls.com/diet https://www.facebook.com/TerryWahls https://www.instagram.com/drterrywahls/ Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

There are many opportunities to have children when you have multiple sclersosis. For many, natural childbirth is definitely an option. For those who it is not, adoption is another viable option. Melissa joins us for an update on her MS journey. She is still raising awareness and donations through Bike MS, but she also has some personal news to share with us as well. Let's chat it up with Melissa.  Instagram: thrivingoversurvivingpodcast http://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Is the outcome of our multiple sclerosis diagnosis all about luck? It is difficult to think that we have no control over whether or not our disease progresses. Dominic "Dom" Shadbolt believes just that though. Whatever he believes about the progression of his own MS, he lives his life by a particular rule; Treat others the way you want to be treated, period. Can't we all just be good people and be kind to one another? At least how we treat others is within our control. Let's also treat ourselves well too, please.  Check out Dom's website and YouTube page. He has some very helpful resources there that might get you thinking.  YouTube: www.themsguide.com Twitter: @theMSguide Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Julie Stamm first joined us in Episode 17, almost two years ago. I thank Julie for her vulnerability as she shared her updates in Episode 98. Julie advocates for all of us to talk about our difficulties. Don't hold back. Julie also shares a new project she co-developed. 52 Essential Inclusion Skills - A to Z Guide to Kindness, Compassion, Respect for Diversity and Disabilities is available on Amazon by Clicking the link below. This collaboration with Harvard Educator and Health Advocate Dr. Jenny Woo, offers strategies to teach both kids and adults empathy. Let's chat it up with Julie! http://iamstamm.com/ 52 Essential Inclusion Skills  https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Alexis Martinez first appeared on TOSP in Episode 71. She shared what it was like for her to manage her own MS and care for her mother who has early onset Alzheimers. This time we discussed her new job and how taking on something new has impacted her daily life and self-worth. Now that I've gotten to meet Alexis in person, it no longer felt like an interview. It was more like catching up with my friend.    Instagram: @itsallinmyhead Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Ah, the optimist's perspective is one many strive to achieve. When dealing with challenges brought on by MS, it is a lot more work to stay optimistic. But the work is well worth it! Matt Knaggs possesses all the qualities of an optimist. He is self-motivated, always around the most motivated people, he believes in possibilities, he is full of joy and finds ways to express gratitude in all things. Yup, we can all learn a thing or two from Matt.  Instagram: @runningwithms_official FB group: Running with MS Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Sleep, nutrition, exercise, mindset, stress management... oh my! We cover all the things in this episode, but most importantly we discuss vitality and gratitude. Vitality is a word we use sparingly in everyday conversation because it sometimes seems unattainable. Laura Leigh may have the secret to gaining this perspective. Let's chat it up! Instagram: @wellnesswithLL FB: Wellness with LL www.wellnesswithLL.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com/    

The love from a child is special and the bond between mother and daughter is one of a kind. Roni shares how her daughter Grey makes it easy for her to lean into her core value of family with ease. Let's chat it up! https://www.youtube.com/baestationtv Instagram: @ronigraham https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast

What is the biggest risk you have ever taken? Was it one that led you on a grand adventure to far-off places you never dared to go before? For many, that is a bit extreme. For some, life would be boring without an unexpected twist or turn. For Melissa Cook, the author of The Call of the Last Frontier, blogger, and YouTube star there is never a dull moment. It is not an option for MS to put her down, even after over 20 years of living with the disease.  www.MelissaCook.us blog: Alaska Bush Life youtube channel: Wyoming Jeepers Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Getting a diagnosis is one thing. Owning a diagnosis is another. With Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis, for some, it is easy to ignore it. But when it creeps back in and reminds us that MS is still there, that's when we begin to pay attention. Megan from The MS Stage chats with Edie about owning her diagnosis and taking action to improve her own life and the lives of others. Let's chat it up!  www.themsstage.com Instagram: @themsstage Email Megan: info@themsstage.com https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast  

How have you grown since your diagnosis of multiple sclerosis? We all have, whether we like it or not. Maybe in the knowledge of the disease, maybe spiritually, or could it be that you have grown your knowledge and understanding of what a healthy lifestyle means to you? Growth as a core value can be somewhat daunting. I know from experience. It is like I can never get enough knowledge and experience. Chatting with Amy, she has grown in her life with MS to understand her journey is to SOLVE the problems she can and DISSOLVE the problems she can't.  email: amy@amybehimercoaching.com website: www.amybehimercoaching.com free resource: https://amybehimercoaching.click/guide-1 Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

For some, finding love seems like an endless search. Now let's add some MS to the mix. No matter what age you are diagnosed, the question raised is, How do I tell this person about my diagnosis? Elana chats it up about her experience on the dating scene with MS, and how she empowers herself through online social platforms. Have you checked out the MS Girl Gang? If you like to laugh, it might be a resource for you.  Instagram: @msgirlgang Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Have you ever joined a Facebook Group with other people diagnosed with MS? MS Friends United has over 300 very active members. Twice a week they get together on Zoom to chat about whatever is on their mind, MS or otherwise. There are people from all over but each has multiple sclerosis in common. How do they make this happen every week? Teamwork. Join me as I chat it up with Lily and Darren.  Info@msfriendsunited.org www.msfriendsunited.org Facebook: MS Friends United Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Have you ever kept a journal or a diary? Turning pain into something incredible is not something Robbie set out to do when he began putting pen to paper. Journaling helped him process how multiple sclerosis was impacting his life. Today, he has turned those thoughts into a collection of poetry that explores all the emotions. Check out Thoughts of a Warrior; Beneath the Tracksuit by Robert Gillett.  Instagram: @beneath_the_tracksuit Facebook & Twitter: Beneath the Tracksuit Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Matthew Embry and his father, Dr. Ashton Embry, created MS Hope for people who have been newly diagnosed or currently living with MS. Their goal is to provide the science-based strategies that have enabled Matthew and many others with multiple sclerosis to live a drug-free, healthy life. Lee joins Edie to chat it up about how following the Best Bet Diet has enhanced his life since his MS diagnosis. https://mshope.com/ Instagram: @lee_whittys Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast Website: https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Authenticity is so darn rare. What does it look like, sound like, and feel like when you find it? When I discovered Samantha Salvaggio I realized this was the real deal. She trusts her gut and embraces whatever she is feeling in the moment. Recognizing that nothing is perfect and that it's ok to have less than ideal moments throughout this journey is one thing. Embracing it is another and that is Sam 100%. Let's chat it up! Website: www.samanthasalvaggio.com TikTok: @slsalvaggio Instagram: @slsalvaggio Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Clinical Trial: Efficacy of Diet on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis (EDQ:MS) ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05007483 Type of MS: relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) Treatment mode of action: dietary intervention Number of Participants: 156 Medication: Participants may continue disease-modifying treatments if they are on them Institution: University of Iowa Address: 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 Contact Name: Mary Ehlinger Phone: 319-384-5002 Email: MSDietStudy@healthcare.uiowa.edu Funding: Gift from the Carter Chapman Shreve Family Foundation to the Therapeutic Lifestyle Fund at the University of Iowa Brief Description This is a research study comparing the effects of three diets — a Modified Paleolithic Diet (elimination of gluten, dairy, and eggs), a Time Restricted Olive Oil-based Ketogenic diet, and usual diet with information about the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans — to determine whether these diets improve quality of life and reduce fatigue, a disabling symptom that can significantly interfere with the ability to function in daily life. Participants in the usual diet group will be encouraged but not required to follow the Dietary Guidelines for Americans diet. The study will also measure the impact of the study diets on walking function, hand function, vision, serum neurofilament (blood biomarker), and brain imaging (presence of enhancing lesions and changes in brain volume).  The study will be held at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics over two years. It will consist of three visits to Iowa City, Iowa. The first visit occurs at month 0. The second visit is at month 3, and third and final visit is at month 24. The first visit may last 4-6 hours. The second visit will last about 2-3 hour. The third visit may last approximately 4-6 hours. Participants will be randomly assigned to follow one of the three study diets. Participants will continue to take their current medications, including any disease-modifying treatments for multiple sclerosis. Participants may take recommended supplements, eat more non-starchy vegetables, complete daily food logs (3 questions) on a free smartphone application, complete online surveys every three months, watch videos to learn about the study diet to which they are assigned, meet with the study dietitian to learn about the study diet to which they are assigned, and attend optional online support meetings. If a participant is assigned to the ketogenic diet, they will be asked to take a blood ketone measurement using a drop of blood daily for the first month, then twice per week. They will have a device that pricks the finger to conduct the blood ketone measurement. Participants will have a fasting blood draw at each of the study visits and may bring a snack after the blood draw. They will complete assessments of walking, hand, and vision function at each visit. They will have a NON-CONTRAST MRI of the brain at the first and last visits. Key requirements to participate in the study include the following: 1) be willing to share medical records with the study team, 2) do not have clinically significant heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease or type 1 diabetes, 3) do not have a serious psychiatric disease that would make adopting a study diet more difficult (for example schizophrenia or disabling depression), 4) are not taking insulin, coumadin, or weight loss medications, 5) have a smart phone or tablet to download a free app, and 6) have access to high-speed internet and a computer, tablet or smart phone to complete surveys and participate in video conferences via the Zoom platform. A screening survey for eligibility to participate in this study is available here: https://redcap.icts.uiowa.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=JX73EYRJNPF9MHRR   Dr. Terry Wahls is an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner and a clinical professor of medicine at the University of Iowa where she conducts clinical trials in the setting of Multiple Sclerosis.  In 2018 she was awarded the Institute for Functional Medicine's Linus Pauling Award for her contributions in research, clinical care and patient advocacy. She is the author of The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles, and the cookbook, The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life.  Learn more about her MS clinical trials https://wahls.lab.uiowa.edu/. Pick up a one-page handout for the Wahls™ Diet at https://terrywahls.com/diet/ Wahls Research Lab - to learn about current clinical research studies that Dr.  Wahls is conducting https://wahls.lab.uiowa.edu/ Social Media Links https://www.facebook.com/TerryWahls/ https://www.instagram.com/drterrywahls/ https://twitter.com/terrywahls https://youtube.com/c/terrywahlsmd

Don't put yourself in a box. We all have unlimited potential. Yes, even if you have MS. In this episode, Edie and Linda discuss what it means to be healthy. It really depends on how YOU definite it for yourself. That means you have to know yourself pretty well to determine what healthy looks and feels like. How well do you know yourself? Let's find out.  Instagram: @lindamrhyne or @lindarhyneconsulting Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Healthcare discrimination, underrepresentation of minority populations in decision-making, bias in the medical profession, and mistrust of the healthcare system are all topics that came up in my chat with Roxy. The Multiple Sclerosis Fashionista's insight and first-hand knowledge of these topics brought new issues to light for me. If you are in the UK, please check out the ADAMS study.  Instagram: @multiplesclerosisfashionista https://app.mantal.co.uk/adams https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/sick-and-sickening/id1531518575 Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast http://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Has your doctor ever discussed sexual dysfunction with you? Have you ever had any issues with libido in the past? There is actually a high rate of dissatisfaction in the sex department among people with MS. This happens for a variety of reasons. In this episode, Edie explores these topics and much more with Brittany Quiroz, AKA "A Hot MS".  Let's chat it up! Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok: @ahotms www.ahotms.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Yes, it can be scary to show your vulnerable side. Some consider it a weakness. But vulnerability can be a powerful asset when you own it, share your story, and know your limits. Along with vulnerability comes trust. if we don't have trusting relationships, especially those of us who deal with autoimmune diseases like MS, we can feel unsupported and alone. In this episode, LaRoyia shares how her core value of vulnerability provides her with the ability to face her chronic illness head-on. She also shares what it means to her to be "strong-ish". Let's chat it up! Instagram: @queensmitherman Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

After Emily was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, she realized her life's purpose. She loves to move-it, move-it! And she loves to get other people moving and shaking it too. She does it because she loves it, and she wants to help others who deal with chronic illnesses. Check out her YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=keep+moving+with+emily Instagram: @keepmovingwithemily Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Have you adjusted your diet at all after your diagnosis? There are a lot of different recommendations out there. Well, I was surprised with Dr. Krick recommended Keto for MS because of all the dairy I associate with that. Boy did he set me straight. He even had some research on hand to back up his thoughts. Chatting it up for the second time with Dr. Taylor Krick.  https://www.washwellnesscenter.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/WashingtonWellnessCenter Instagram: @autoimmunedoc https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast    

Setting goals and achieving them is easier said than done. When you reach them, do you celebrate? You gotta celebrate your success! Please don't miss out on celebrating the wins, even the smallest ones. Randy Patrick, creator of Must Stop MS and #ChatMS shares how his involvement with the MS community helps him achieve his goals.  Twitter: @MustStopMS TikTok: @muststopms Instagram: @must_stop_ms https://www.meatfight.com/ Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

Melissa was the very first guest on TOSP. One year later on the season 3 premiere, we welcome her back. This time she brought her twin sister Brandy to discuss how they use gratitude to lift themselves up. Their lives are not all peaches and roses, Melissa has MS and Brandy has had some serious turmoil the last couple of years. But with the love and support of their family, gratitude helps them to focus on all the great things in their lives. Let's chat it up with Melissa and Brandy.  Instagram: @melissa_gordan95 Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Before we move into Season 3, I wanted to do a little rewind. When I think back on all the thrivers I've had the privilege to chat with, I feel honored they allowed us to share their journey with them. Thank you to all who listen and feel connected to this community.  Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

This week while I am on vacation, I am sharing some bonus content I recorded with Dr. Taylor Krick. He is an expert in autoimmune disease and had some interesting tid bits to share about leaky gut. Let's chat it up with the Autoimmune Doc! https://www.washwellnesscenter.com/ Instagram: @autoimmuneDoc https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autoimmune-doc-podcast-w-dr-taylor-krick/id1562522498 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSAKgeiblE8CFUVrmd58dWw Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com    

We all see Damian Washington on TV commercials and MS Views & News. Maybe you have perused his YouTube Channel or Website. Wherever you have absorbed his fantastic energy, it was bound to be entertaining and full of great information about multiple sclerosis. Do you try to be present in the current moment and in your given circumstance? Damian and Edie chat it up about how he makes it all work for him.  Instagram: @damianwashington website: https://www.damianwashington.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NoStressMS Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast website: https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

I don't know anyone with multiple sclerosis that signed up for it. Nobody stands in line with great expectations hoping that someone will say, "Yes, you have MS".  But if you have this disease, you might as well make the most of it. So how do you do that? Stand up and share your story. As I chatted it up with David Beneby Jr, I realized there is something about him that emotes a positive outlook on life. There is no magic wand, but maintaining a mindset focused on the possibilities in life is a great place to start.    Facebook: David Beneby Jr.  Amazon find David's book, Stand Up, here Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurivingpodcast.com

Have you ever been lonely? I'm talking about that deep loneliness leading down the road to depression. How did you get out of it? Anna shares with us the journey of healing she has been on since MS took away her ability to walk. Join me as I chat it up with Anna.  Instagram: @immakeepstandin Blog: https://linktr.ee/AnnaGiannakouros Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Dave Walsh is a strongman, a dad, a husband, and is hilarious. He is competing for the world's strongest disabled man in Canada June 2022. But he is not just all muscles. This is a man who also helps others understand what it is like from his perspective in a wheelchair. Let's chat it up and cheer for Dave AKA SittingbullUK! Instagram & Facebook: @Sitting_bull_uk Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

If you have ever struggled with your weight or self-esteem, you know how we can be our own worst enemy. Why do we let that negative voice creep into our heads and control us? Jae shares with us that although it is a daily struggle, she stomps all over that voice to make sure she is making decisions to live the life she wants to live. Let's chat it up with Jae.  Instagram: @rollingwithms Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurivivngpodcast.com  

Terry is back and this time, her twin sister Tamara is joining us as well. These two women, who call themselves Twins Coast 2 Coast, give so much of themselves to help others with multiple sclerosis. Their journey is unique because they both have MS, but even more, because they are thriving despite having the disease for over 25 years. Fundraising to support research is a passion of theirs. Listen as we chat it up about the importance of family, Epstein Barr, and so much more.  Instagram: @twinscoast2coast Instagram: @thrivingoversurivivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

Alexis had quite the time getting her multiple sclerosis diagnosis. In fact, she was living overseas when she finally got some answers. She was able to get back home to California, and help take care of her mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. Watching her mother's struggle has helped her gain perspective in her own life. Let's chat it up with Alexis. Oh yeah... listen closely and you can hear Alexis's kids playing in the background. We are all about family here at TOSP!  Instagram: @ms_itsallinmyhead Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com  

How do you cope with your MS? Do you fight against it, or embrace the challenges set before you? Steve believes MS is an unwanted friend, and he has adapted his life to ensure he is thriving. Fifteen years ago Steve proclaimed that aerobic exercise just was not for him. Now he is determined to get that 5K medal. Join me as I chat it up with Steve.  Steve's Fundraising Couch to 5K Challenge LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wellmindcoach/ Facebook: @TheMSTiger @Thesugarstealerband Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Jodi has seen some hard times. Between her husband's bipolar disorder to her own multiple sclerosis diagnosis, she has been through all the things. Her book, Letters To An Unbelieving Woman is available on Amazon and chronicles her journey of broken friendships, sickness, love & family, and more. Join us as we chat about how medical cannabis and Jesus have impacted her life.  Instagram: @jodi.marie.nix Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Montreal Canadian, Marie shares her struggle beginning with her prolonged diagnosis of MS. Now she uses a motorized wheelchair to get her where she needs to go. Marie uses this as ammunition to focus on healing her body through weightlifting. She is gearing up for a big competition in 2025. Help me cheer on this fashionista. Let's chat it up! Instagram: @mariepontini See her weight loss transformation on her YouTube Channel Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

How do you cope with MS? Samantha Bromfield lets it all out, in her own words, no holds barred. Her blog highlights her journey with multiple sclerosis. But there's another side to this thriver. As an avid reader, Samantha knows how to take time for herself to feed her soul.  Instagram: @chronically.sam Blog: https://chronicallysam.co.uk Instagram: @thrivingoversurviving https://thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com

Substance abuse and mental health issues plague the chronic illness community. Mykee Dilks-Byrne was diagnosed with MS after she gained her sobriety over alcohol. She told me it is a daily struggle to maintain, but focusing on compassion and gratitude does help. Listen as she shares her story of addiction, mental illness, recovery, and MS diagnosis. If you struggle with substance abuse, please call the National Drug and Alchohol Treatment Hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). BTW, recorded this while I was ill so you will hear it in my voice and I think I had a bit of brain fog. Thank you for your grace. Facebook: MJsProgressnotPerfection Instagram: @mjsprogressnotperfection www.thrivingoversurvivingpodcast.com Instagram: @thrivingoversurvivingpodcast