It was just a short while ago that my little brother Jake was diagnosed with MS, or Multiple Scleorsis, a debilitating disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is home to the spinal cord, brain and optic nerves. In other words, it’s home to the parts of us that allow us to talk, think, eat, walk…you get the picture. You see how important the CNS is to our existence. (For a more in-depth definition of MS, please visit the National MS Society’s website.)
Since the doctors first told Jake that they suspected he had it, I’ve been in awe of how strong and optimistic he’s been. He could have let that news tear him down and pull him into a very deep depression that he may not have escaped from.
But my brother looked at things differently. He finally had answers to symptoms that had plagued him for years. He finally knew what was wrong with him. And now that he had the knowledge, he had the power to change his life for the better.
When I see how strong Jake’s been over the past few months, I can’t help but be proud of him. My little brother is a warrior. And he’s wise beyond his years. I admire him so much, and I know he’s going to give MS a run for its money.
When my mother told me Jake was taking part in Walk MS 2013 in York, Maine, I thought it was great idea. When I found out he wanted to include my daughter in the event, I was thrilled. She’s been very concerned about her uncle, and I know this is something that will mean a lot to her. She gets to help not only him, but many others, as well.
And after speaking with Jake and my mom, I realized this walk was something I need to take part in as well. We are my brother’s support system. We are there when he needs help. And right now, he’s not the only one who does. There are 18,000 people in the New England area who are affected by this disease.
The MS walk is six miles long. And for me, who hasn’t walked six miles at one time in years, it may be a challenge. There’s no denying I’m not as fit as a I once was. So yeah, I’m going to most likely look like a sweaty mess by the time I’m done. I’m going to be exhausted…but any discomfort I feel will be totally worth it because I’m helping others. And you all know how important that is to me.
Unfortunately, though, because it’s the busy season at my boyfriend’s work, he can’t take part in the race with us even though he wants to. However, there’s one next spring in Concord, NH, which is close to us, and we, as a family, are going to take part in it. And we plan on participating in these for years to come as a family.
If you would like to donate, you can do so here. Proceeds go towards funding local programs and ground-breaking research that will one day help us rid the world of MS. Any donation is welcome. No amount is too small. And each is greatly appreciated.
From my family to yours, thank you!
A had a best friend growing up whom had a mother with severe MS. My family and hers use to do the MS walk in South Portland every year, such a great organization to represent! You are so amazing for supporting your brother in this walk. It’s a lot of fun when you do it with friends and family and the six miles really feel like nothing 🙂
My daughter and I are very excited to do it. Since it’s in York Beach, I’m wondering if it’ll be along route 1. That would be cool. And it is nice that we get to go with friends and family and have my mom waiting at the end for us. She wishes she could do it with us this year but with her back problems, she’s not up to the six miles yet. Once the spring one hits, I think she will be.