Multiple Sclerosis: Bittersweet

I love my mom!  It is her birthday today, June 6, and I had to write a little snippet about her.  She is the strongest lady I know.  She is a firm believer in Christ, always has a positive attitude and rarely complains.  The thing is, she's had MS for over 25 years.  She can't walk, can't move her legs or arms and is confined to a bed most of the time.  I will be honest with you and tell you that I would have a hard time staying positive if I was in that situation.  But she astounds me.  She was diagnosed in 1986, after the birth of my brother.  I don't remember much of the digression, only seeing a cane first come into the picture.  Then came the walker, hand controls in the car for driving, the motorized scooter and now a wheelchair.  It all happened gradually.  I can only remember three times where my mom spoke about feeling sorry for herself.  Three times in 26 years...wow.  I remember feeling sorry for MYSELF because she had MS.  Really Amanda??

I can't say the same today.  When I tell people her story, I always add on that I would not be the woman I am today if it weren't for my mom's battle with MS.  I would not have bore witness to God's amazing grace working in her life.  She has been a light in the darkness, shining God's love and spreading joy wherever she goes.  Her life is a testimony of perseverance and faith.  I truly believe that God has a plan and a purpose for everyone.  We can never understand, but we can follow in faith and watch as His greatness unfolds before us.

For more information on Multiple Sclerosis, visit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society website.

Blessings,

4 Generations: My Grandmother, Mother, Me and my little Lulu