Stories to Inspire
My MS Blessing
By Dunya Price
Among other blessings, Dunya Price credits MS with enabling her to stay in shape and compete in figure contests.
Whoever heard me say, "MS is my blessing in disguise," would look at me as though I was absolutely crazy. It is true. MS has changed my life for the better. I was diagnosed only two years ago, but I knew something had been wrong with me for at least two years prior to my diagnosis.
I was a SUPER stay-at-home mom and retired elementary school teacher with a plan to return to teaching when my children started school. I was a very active woman who loved to exercise and lift weights. I loved fitness so much that I started to compete in obstacle course contests. The competing came to a halt, however, when I began falling and having balance trouble.
After I became almost completely blind in my right eye, I knew something was wrong. After getting new glasses, the doctor recommended that I see an eye specialist, who diagnosed my MS. Most of my family and friends were devastated. I, on the other hand, was not so much sad as I was relieved to find out that I was not going crazy. I actually had a problem and it was MS.
Following my diagnosis, the obstacle course competitions came to a stop, although I still had a desire to participate in some type of physical competition. Determined to compete, I ran a 5K race, which didn't work well either. I realized that I needed to think smarter and take care of myself.
Finally, I discovered a way to continue to compete without hurting myself. I started to compete in figure contests. Figure contests are similar to bodybuilding, but are more "ladylike." You pose on stage in a bikini and heels, being judged on your physique. My first contest was so exciting that I was immediately hooked. I even won two trophies!
Competing in figure contests forces me to eat healthy foods and to drink more water. When I am eating right and exercising, I feel great. My doctor is surprised with how great I look and feel when I'm competing. Odd as this may sound, I have MS to thank for this. Combined with my drive to compete, having MS forces me to eat better and to stay healthy.
I have always said that MS would not stop me from doing the things I love - although I may need to make some adjustments from time-to-time. My next goal is to return to teaching.
I believe that MS is my "blessing in disguise," because it makes me truly appreciate each and every day. It helps me to realize what is important in life. Without MS, I never would have taken a step back and looked at the world this way. I hope my story will help to inspire others with MS to continue to work toward the things they love, and not give up their dreams.
Dunya kindly contributed this inspiring article to MSAA. Her generosity is greatly appreciated.
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