Never Back Down

The title of this blog is how I feel about life. I am approaching the two year mark of my diagnosis. I was looking back at the early posts on this site and I am amazed at how my mind set has changed, and how I have personally changed. The voice in my early posts was a little more frustrated than in my later posts. I have certainly learned to deal with the pitfalls and obstacles that M.S. carries. I am reminded daily that everyday is a gift to be cherished. Since I began my new medicine last December it seems that my symptoms have been better controlled. This has allowed me to focus my energy on my classroom. Last week I was notified that I am one of the 24 semi finalists for the KY Teacher of the Year award. This means more to me than I could ever express in words. There was a point two years ago where I was afraid that I would not be able to teach. I have had many doors shut but so many more opened and this is a testament to what believing and having faith can produce. As I prepare today to board a plane to Atlanta to begin my speaker training with the drug company that makes my M.S. medication, I am reflecting on the past two years with a full heart. M.S. has certainly taken many things from me, however, I have gained so many things as well.