While MS certainly influences my daily life, it doesn't define who I am. I'm not just someone with MS; I'm a multifaceted individual with a unique identity, interests, and aspirations. My spirit and self-confidence encompass all these aspects of myself and empower me to be the awesome gal I strive to be every day.
Living with MS can be challenging, but it offers opportunities for personal growth and triumph. My spirit can rise to meet these challenges, learning to adapt, persevere, and find new ways to live a fulfilling life despite the obstacles.
I earned a Ph.D. in Teacher Development at the University of Toronto. My thesis explores the impact of multiple sclerosis on teacher identity.
My thesis includes many image-rich texts. Here is an excerpt from a letter I wrote to MS. I felt compelled to tell MS that despite being a challenge in my life, it influenced my approach to teaching and teacher identity. MS never broke my spirit; it made me a better teacher.
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