Kylin 🧡🎗️

Today marks 5 years since my MS diagnosis—5 years since my life was ultimately forever changed. Finding out that I had a lifelong illness which only progresses and has no cure was life-shattering. But I had to pick up all my pieces, quickly, to enjoy what MS has yet to take from me (my mobility, my remaining vision, my executive function). I made it my mission to (1) live while I’m young; (2) advocate for the millions of other people impacted by this illness and similar ones; and (3) share my story to help people get through their own MS diagnosis and journey, especially other young adults. In the process of achieving these things, I have been frustrated by my body and questioning every twitch or spasm. I’ve moved through mental and physical pain, and learned so many invaluable lessons. I had to forgive my body for betraying me, and find a good therapist. I had to learn who my real friends were, and had to learn to stop people pleasing (immediately) to save energy. I make choices with my energy every day and trade offs with my body to keep my MS at bay. I am so fortunate to have experienced stability since diagnosis, but I know that this is never certain. So I try new things. I speak about MS on panels and in Congress. I study law, despite the warnings that it might not be possible. And I couldn’t do it without my awesome family and friends, who show up to silly events for me and who are there for me as I face impossible choices and big emotions. Cheers to five years. And yes, I coined the F*CK MS party😂. #multiplesclerosis #autoimmune #mswarrior #msdiagnosis #msawareness