World MS Day: what it is like to live with multiple sclerosis

I would like to write a few lines here to tell you how I am doing with “my” MS. Today's World MS Day has prompted me to think a bit more deeply about what has happened in the 9 years since my MS diagnosis.

What is remarkable is this: I feel a great sense of gratitude that I am doing so well today, and that with the support of my family, good friends and physical activity I can live very well with my MS.

But there are also moments that are not so easy: you feel tired, you have pain, or you simply have no energy. In those moments the people who catch you and give you courage matter all the more.

It also matters to me to keep seeing everything I can still do, rather than only seeing what no longer works. That helps me keep having new goals and dreams.

I think we all have our own challenges in life, which makes it all the more important to surround yourself with people who do you good. Looking to the future with a positive mind and moving forward step by step takes all of us further in life.

I also keep trying to find my own inner balance. It matters to me that work, family and sport complement each other and stay in balance. When I manage that, I feel fit and capable. Mental support matters to me too, and I still see a lot of room to grow there for myself.

My goal is to stay fit for as long as possible, to tackle my goals with plenty of drive, and not to let setbacks discourage me…