What does it take to live well with MS for more than 40 years? For professor and theatre maker David Peimer, the answer lies in resilience, curiosity, and transforming anger into creative energy.
In this powerful and deeply reflective episode of Living Well with MS, David shares how he went from being given just four years to live to building a successful global career – teaching, directing, and writing award-winning plays – while following the Overcoming MS Program.
With honesty and humour, David explores how diet, stress management, and self-understanding helped him rebuild his health and his life. His story is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the belief that, even when faced with MS, we can learn to surf the wave rather than be swept away by it.
Watch this episode on YouTube here. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps and David’s bio.
Topics and timestamps
02:02 David’s early MS journey and life-changing diagnosis
06:09 Facing paralysis, fear, and the turning point that sparked hope
11:48 How reading Judy Graham and following the Swank diet changed everything
17:43 Managing stress and anger: finding calm in chaos
23:16 Inside the Copaxone trial: early experiences with MS treatment
29:19 Rebuilding purpose through creativity and compassion
34:51 The power of community and connection
40:10 David’s advice for anyone newly diagnosed
More info and links
Learn about Judy Graham and her booksThe history of Copaxone, the first DMT for MSLearn more about David’s workNew to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS – begin your journey at our ‘Get started’ pageConnect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well HubVisit the Overcoming MS websiteFollow us on social media:
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