About Trish |
After experiencing tingling, dizziness, and fatigue tests came back negative for back problems so my mom was instructed to go to a neurologist. On December 3, 2003 the neurologist walked into the exam room to inform my mom that the problems that she was having were symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. At the time, I was three years old and my brother was eight. Her diagnosis created a daily challenge for our young and active family. She jumped hurdles until June 2012, when we were forced to face a bigger challenge. As her symptoms worsened, it became harder for her to walk her normal 3 miles a day, work full time, and do errands without her energy being depleted. So as it worsened the doctor started her on new medicines with the hope that one would impede the growing lesions on her brain and spinal cord. One of the possible side effects of the new medicine she was on was cancer. After going to yet another doctor we found out that she had breast cancer. Just like she had been fighting her MS, she fought the cancer too. Despite the challenges, my mom has been positive throughout her fight with MS. Without the love and support from my Dad, Brother, Lolly, Papa, and Aunt she would not be able to continue to jump the hurdles that this MS has put in our path. We are so lucky to have such amazing, supportive, and loving friends that have helped us along the way with our journey. My mom has showed me the true meaning of strength and determination. There have been many days of feeling defeated, exhausted, and overwhelmed with the unknown of what the following day would hold. But what we do know is we will get through it...together as a family.
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About Kevin |
On Sept 11, 2010, Kevin Johnson was sent to the hospital with symptoms that included numbness and tingling all down his left side. Doctors weren't sure what it was and thoughts ranged from pinched nerve to a brain tumor. After an MRI, doctors informed Kevin that he had multiple lesions and diagnosed him with Multiple Sclerosis. It was not great, but given the other possibilities, a sigh of relief washed over Kevin and his wife, Jamie, who had two young infant twins born just a year before. Luckily for their family, Kevin’s MS has not impacted their everyday life as severe as others who are dealing with the symptoms of this disease. When he first started coaching me I was unaware of his disease because it is not evident that he is a victim of MS. I didn’t believe it because he does not let this road block get in the way of his family and coaching. One of the advantages that their family has over his MS is the amazing support system behind them. Though there might be small daily challenges, like brushing his teeth with his left hand or golfing like he used to in his youth, Kevin continues to have a positive outlook on the situation at hand. Through this bump in the road that MS has created, Kevin continues to influence kids and adults with his positivity and attitude towards life. One thing Kevin has taught me is that no matter what life throws in the way, continue to strive towards greatness and never give up. He has been an amazing example in my life of perseverance and not giving up. After talking with Kevin, he described his fight with this disease in two words, teamwork and winning. Without his wife, kids, family, friends, positive mindset, the teamwork of everyone around him, and treatment plan with an amazing doctor he would not be winning his battle with MS. Currently he is ahead…..KJ-6 MS-0.
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