MS Scars 2 Stars

"TURNING THOSE MS SCARS INTO STARS"

MS, lesions, also known as plaques, are patches of inflammation in the central nervous system in which the nerve cells have been striped of their protective myelin or insulating cover. These demyelinated neurons do not function properly and it is these lesions that give rise to the symptoms of MS.

In relapsing-remitting MS, their is significant recovery as the inflammation dies down. Special maintenance cells called glial cells are responsible for the repair of the damaged nerves. One type of glial cell, called an oligodendrocyte, lays down new myelin and another type, called an astrocyte lays down SCAR tissue.

A STAR is defined as a heavenly body, champion, headliner or a virtuoso. Another definition of a Star is defined as a network whose components are connected to a hub.

My faith in God is my connection and that is how I am "Turning Those MS Scars Into Stars." I am striving to experience the challenge of living with MS as a Blessing, an opportunity to grow in compassion, patience, grace, and love, all of which are blessings - Multiple Blessings Not Multiple Sclerosis!

Monday, June 13, 2011

Why Stay Home, Why Not Fly? Part 2

I met an interesting elderly women on a resent flight through Charlotte. She was traveling alone and with an oxygen supply. I noticed her because we were both in the early boarding area of the airline terminal. She shared with me that she had not been out of her house in years. I immediately imagined that this must have been a major event for her to attempt to make her first outing a flight across country, perhaps a death in the family. But she soon added that it was her granddaughter's birthday, and she wasn't going to miss another one. That made me think how little time we have to spend with love ones since the reason for my fight was to be with a family member in hospice.
The fear of flying for some is very real and difficult if not impossible but, overcoming the fear of being in a situation where you are unable to take care of yourself takes guts. I admire this lady's resolve that at her age and condition nothing was going to stop her from spending time with family.

THINK ABOUT IT.