I went to the Mayo Clinic again, and I tried Tysabri IV for 1.5 years. No new flares but no improvements. It was discovered that I was JCVirus positive and was at risk for developing PML, a deadly neurological disease. So, I stopped Tysabri, and started oral Tecfidera. I stopped after about 2 months due to GI side effects. I chose not to take anymore drugs for MS. I felt there was nothing else I could do. I had faith in Jesus, but I was definitely being tested.
I didn't know what I was going to do?? Being very disabled, I just lost my nursing job, lost my independence, and lost my ability to walk, talk, or drive! I couldn't walk without a walker, couldn't talk and communicate very easily. I felt alone and stuck. My world became very small. I didn't want to see anyone, and I didn't want anyone to see me like I was. I guess you could say I was feeling sorry for myself. But, honestly, I really couldn't do anything!
Over the next 4 years, I isolated myself from people. I prayed and immersed myself in the teaching of God's Word. I needed to have a purpose in my life. Everyone does. I was a caregiver and loved spreading the gospel! I am a good listener and helper. Everyday I would ask God what he wanted me to do, and how could I use my spiritual gifts?
I finally got my answer! He showed me! I learned about Global Media Outreach(GMO) through a pastor I watch in Hawaii. In those 4 years, God had been preparing me for this! I applied to become an online missionary(OM), and was accepted!! This was perfect for me as I didn't have to leave my house, I could type with 1 finger, I could use my gifts, and best of all, it gave me the purpose that would eternally change people's lives. I've been to places all over the world and have met so many people!
I've learned so much, and I've touched many lives! They have touched me, too!!
Gradually, I became more confident and started going to a swimming class at the YMCA. It is a great group who understand what I'm going through, because they all have MS, too. I also met my friend, Sue, who is a Physical Therapist. She has come to my home so many times to help me! She has helped me get out of my comfort zone.
I now go to a Bible study with her at her church, and I started going to a Bible study at my church! The women have been so welcoming and accepting. Very generous, too!! Many of them along with my swim group, donated to helping me go to Mexico! I'm forever grateful for them all!
I began doing some research on treatments for MS. I started seeing my husband's cousin, who is a doctor. He is so knowledgeable and really wants to help me. He was open to searching for the cause and trying alternative treatments like the ketosis diet and the PK Protocol. We drove 2 hours to his clinic to have an IV therapy. They welcomed us to stay overnight so we could do another IV therapy the next day. We tried many things.
When I was researching, I found HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplant)! It has stopped the progression of MS in about 70-80% of people. So, this was the next step for me! More about HSCT in my next blog!!
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