Not so long ago, it really would puzzle me when someone would tell me what an inspiration I was. Generally, I would smile, say thanks and think to myself, “You really should strive to find inspiration in something a little higher than me and my Multiple Sclerosis.”
I mean, has anyone ever told you what an inspiration you are? An inspiration not because of your latest accomplishment but because you’re living with MS or some other illness.
Really, like you had a choice in that matter?
It wasn’t as though some great mystic force said, “How about living with a chronic illness for the rest of your life?” and your reply was, “Why, yes. That sounds good like a good plan.” And your inspirational life began.
But it was my amazing husband, Dan, who made me realize people are not inspired by my just having Multiple Sclerosis: it is how I live with the disease that inspires others. My choice to move forward optimistically and with purpose regardless of what the disease dishes out may inspire some. I don’t live hoping to be an inspiration, but what a nice side effect to the decisions I make.
Honestly, there are times when my positive attitude tank gets a little low, too. Fortunately I’ve realized that inspiration can be found all around us. For example, after finishing my graduate degree and unburying my nose from textbooks, I’ve rekindled my relationship with my neglected television and have found some great sources of inspiration.
The Sundance Channel program Push Girls follows the lives of five women who have been paralyzed by either illness or accident. The reality show chronicles the day-to-day challenges and triumphs that Angela, Tiphany, Mia, Auti and Chelsie each encounter. Since my becoming wheelchair dependent, I had never seen such honest, accurate depictions of life with a chair.
These ladies are role models, inspirations and my peer group all at the same time. When Mia or Chelsie used a standing frame, they were strengthening their muscles—not thinking, “Hope this inspires someone.” But it did inspire someone – me. After buying my own used standing frame, I now stand 2 to 3 times a week for 30 minutes at a time. My circulation and breathing has gotten stronger. I feel more powerful and better about my abilities.
Just as the summer season ended for Push Girls, I slipped into Lifetime’s hit fashion show Project Runway another one of my other TV favorites! But never did I expect this program would introduce me to a designer who inspires me in my life with MS.
Justin is a 27-year-old fashion designer who is deaf. He is incredibly talented and lets his work speak for itself. As he has gotten closer to his fellow designers, Justin has taken the opportunity to gradually educate them about his deafness and the deaf culture. His opening up to others about his realities is the same way I aspire to help others understand MS and what it’s like to live with this chronic illness Dan and I share.
This is why he and I advocate, blog, speak and lead a self-help group. In addition to helping to better our lives, these activities also provide opportunities to help others move forward with theirs.
Like all five Push Girls and Justin, I don’t believe any of us are trying to be inspirational. We are just living our lives as best we can—much like so many of you who are inspiring so many others just by the way you live.
Do you ever think you are an inspiration to others? Whether or not you realize it, you are. Every day.
I never think of myself as an inspiration, but I remember being told that — especially when I spoke in front of an audience. Like you, I wondered why this was the case, since I was just doing normal things with a slight adjustment.
I was only in the beginning of the MS symptoms when I completed my MA, but I did the doctoral studies online where no one could see me. I guess ‘normal’ people think it’s extraordinary when disabled people can accomplish anything.
I get inspired, but not just by the disabled person, but by the person who succeeds despite all odds against him/her.
Thanks, Muff! We couldn’t agree more. It seems we always are rooting for the underdogs 🙂 Thanks for checking in.
Jen, you are not an inspiration because you have MS, nor because you still accomplish your goals in life. It is the grace, honesty, and attitude with which you deal with this disease that makes you an inspiration. It is your strength that inspires. You and Dan and the care and kindness you have for each other is also inspiring. On top of it all you are both great writers and are able to convey so much with your words. Plus you have cute toes. Xoxoxox Nora
Your kind words blow me away, Nora! And you’re right, I DO have cute toes! Couldn’t do any of it without the support and strength from a good friend like you. Aren’t you glad we didn’t run away to LA when we were in eighth grade 😉
Well-stated piece, Jen! And all the comments are… yes… I agree!
Thanks, Mimi 🙂 I appreciate you comment, friendship and support!
What a great topic and as usual, handled so well.
One year the MS Society awarded me “Most Inspirational Walker”. I responded by saying that I don’t know if I am inspirational. But what I do know is that I am inspired.
Maybe that’s it. Maybe it is the fact that you, Dan, myself and so many others are inspired to make a difference in the world is what inspires others.
I don’t know exactly what the answer is. But as long as we can keep generating that response, I will be grateful for it.
BTW– you do inspire me to do more.
Thanks, Michael! Dan and I are so lucky to have a cyber friend as awesome and inspirational as you!! Wishing you all the best.
This is an awesome article! Thanks for the shout out 🙂 wish you all
The best!!
Thanks, Chelsie! Coming from you this means so much. May you keep inspiring others (and me)!
I think this was one of your best posts, Jennifer … you never fail to provide a refreshing perspective that I hadn’t considered before.
I never knew you before your MS diagnosis, but I can tell you that I feel inspired by the way you engage and lift up those around you. I think that is just who you are.
And yes, you’ve made a conscious choice to make your life into a mission of supporting, educating and uplifting others. How can you NOT be inspired by that?
Thank you, Cynthia! I am blessed to be surrounded by inspiring and supportive people (such as yourself). Thanks for always being there for Dan and me 🙂
Jen, I totally agree with Nora except about the toes. I never really paid any attention 🙂 You and Dan have reached so many people through your advocacy. And you inspire people who don’t have disabilities also!! Love you guys and God’s blessings.
Well Nancy, to be honest, the toes just aren’t what they used to be. Darn age and MS 😉 Thanks for your comment. Dan and I really hope we are making a difference and couldn’t do that without our supportive family and friends! Love you!!