Stacey

We’re fighting MS and the battle we go through everyday. Getting healthcare, getting services, figuring out how to function in the world when you have a disease that changes every day. Today you’re fine and tomorrow you’re not. And the next day who knows.

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Diagnosis: Secondary Progressive

Stacey’s first MS episode occurred 20 years ago while she was in college. She took medications for 12 years and while their side effects made her sick, she was still able to work two jobs—one 9 to 5 during the week and a second job on the weekend.

When the disease advanced to the progressive stage, Stacey began experiencing cognitive blocks and vertigo.

Stacey tried different support groups, but none felt right. During a Kaiser appointment, a mental health worker suggested she find a community and connected her up with another woman looking for a group.

“We began talking on twitter, and she knew another woman at her job. And I met another young woman who was having a rough time at her support group.”

Four people attended the first meeting. Now with Stacy as the lead coordinator, MS Fight Club, East Bay has 40 members. She created a group for people with all levels of MS, from the those who are barely affected to those who can barely function. It’s a place where they can socialize or deal with whatever problems they are confronting, no matter how dire or desperate their situation.