One evening, while your older brother was just a baby, I was out for a stroll with him in the stroller. Your dad offered to take over, but I hesitated, fearing I wouldn’t be able to stand if I let go. After countless tests and appointments, I received the diagnosis—multiple sclerosis—and was in the midst of a challenging flare-up.
As we sat in the doctor’s office absorbing the news and discussing the next steps, all I could think was, “This is serious.” It felt like the most daunting challenge I’ve ever faced. I remembered a friend of my mother’s who relied on a motorized wheelchair, and suddenly the future I envisioned for us seemed out of reach. The prospect of having you felt impossible. A neurologist even warned me, “Getting pregnant right now could seriously hurt your prognosis.” I understood that caring for myself would be difficult enough, let alone another child. At that moment, I wished it had been a more straightforward issue, like an inoperable brain tumor.
However, after extensive research, I’ve come to realize that living with MS is not as bleak as I initially thought—it’s even preferable to a brain tumor. Now, a year and a half later, I’m arguably in better health than ever. With the support of my new neurologist and OB, here we are—your little life is beginning to grow inside me, and I’m filled with hope. As we embark on this journey together, I want you to know that we are ready for any challenges that may arise. Our little family is poised to create a beautiful life together.
Embracing Uncertainty
First and foremost, we must embrace uncertainty. We can’t predict how my MS may progress—there’s a chance I could lose my eyesight, struggle to walk, or forget the names of loved ones. But perhaps that won’t happen. This experience could teach you compassion and resilience—qualities that emerge from facing adversity.
The truth is, none of us know what the future holds. This is a universal reality, and we are fortunate to be consciously aware of it. I’ve learned to focus on what we can control and to cherish the certainties we have. For example, I am confident that your older brother, despite being just two and a half, will guide you through life with a unique mix of wisdom and enthusiasm. He is truly an old soul. Your dad is remarkable—funny, strong, and ready for any challenge. Together, we make an incredible team, and you can trust that we will navigate any uncertainties with determination and humor. We are committed to giving you the wonderful life you deserve.
Seizing the Moments
Additionally, we must seize the moments we have. I’ve never been fond of running, but I trained to complete a 5K while I still could. Other mothers may take standing for granted, but I’m determined to live fully while I can. This means waking up early to swim at the YMCA because we have the energy to do so! It might also mean helping our elderly neighbor with their lawn, simply because we can and should. Just so you know, we don’t tend to lounge around much in this family.
Advocating for a Cure
Speaking of action, we need to advocate for a cure. When I was diagnosed in 2016, there was limited understanding of what causes MS. It’s thought to stem from environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and possibly a virus. It could happen to anyone, and we still don’t know why I have it or how severe it may become. I hope research progresses swiftly so that you don’t have to endure this struggle.
While hope is important, my sister wisely pointed out that “hope is not a strategy.” We must take action! We need to raise funds for research, celebrate breakthroughs, and share our experiences with MS to foster awareness and advocacy. I’m actively doing my part, and I can’t wait to see how you and your brother become advocates in the fight against this disease. We need another champion like you on our team.
A Message of Love
I truly hope that by the time you read this, MS has had little to no impact on your life. If that hope doesn’t materialize, remember how deeply loved you are and how inspired I am to be your mom. You and your brother motivate me to stay healthy. We are a resilient and positive family, and I will do everything in my power to instill these qualities in you. MS does not define me, and I am committed to ensuring it doesn’t define your life either. We can face this together. I love you every single day.
In Summary
In summary, this heartfelt letter outlines the journey of a mother with multiple sclerosis and conveys essential messages of resilience, hope, and the importance of cherishing the present. It emphasizes the need for advocacy and support, while also reassuring the unborn child of their family’s unwavering love and determination.
Keyphrase: Living with Multiple Sclerosis
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