Holly is an MSer from the state of Wisconsin who was working in the healthcare field as an RN when she started experiencing dizzy spells when she was out in the heat. That feeling became more frequent and she started dropping things. Holly then went in for a regular physical and her doctor and friend told her that she needed to see a neurologist because something wasn't right with her eyes. Holly then went to see a neurologist and after an MRI she was diagnosed with MS in 2012.
Holly and I have an amazing discussion about how we both hid our diagnosis from our work our employers because of fear of being mistreated because we witnessed it in our work environments. Holly explains how she was pushed out of her profession by the leadership of her hospital. We discuss how employers can attempt to terminate you even though you received perfect evaluations if they consider you a liability. Holly explains how she advocated for her rights and settled with her employer to keep her quiet.
Holly talks to me about her DMT journey and how she didn't want to go on a DMT but tried Copaxone because her neurologist talked her into it. Holly didn't like anything about the treatment so Holly made the decision to quit her DMT. Holly explains how her neurologist was actually not going to see her anymore if she did but he backed down and continues to see her. Holly then explains how after years of doing well she crashed and decided to go back on a DMT.
Holly and I also have a discussion about the mental health part of the disease and how we have had to change the way we thought before MS and how we think about things today. We talk about how we want people to understand the disease and not pity us. Holly shares how important family support is and how it helps our mental health having there support.
Holly and I also talk about an incredible Facebook group called the Multiple Sclerosis Rebels (MSR) that is lead by a beautiful Columbian Liliana (Episode 30). We talk about the importance of finding a community that has people you can speak with.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey Holly! You are an amazing person and a badass MS Warrior!
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