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“MS is tricky. One minute you feel like you’re on top of the world and the next minute you feel like a ton of bricks hit you. But I’ve learned to listen to my body. I don’t ignore my symptoms anymore. If I’m not feeling well I call the doctor right away.” A recent MRI showed more lesions for Latoya who takes glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) to slow disease-progression. A new monthly shot of methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) has been prescribed for her acute exacerbations. “I am thankful I can still get around. I like to cook, clean and do things on my own.” While a friend has offered to accompany Latoya on her doctor’s appointments and take her grocery shopping, she feels like she can do it all by herself. “I like to take advantage that I am still able to do it.” “Life is precious. Take it one day at a time. Don’t take life for granted.” Although Latoya worries what her future may hold, she says it’s all in God’s hands. “I worry about being pregnant one day. What if I have a flare up and can’t hold my baby in my arms? But it’s not up to me. Whatever God’s plan for me is – it’s in His hands.” Latoya volunteers at the chapter office whenever possible and tells us, “If the day comes when I can’t come in to the office anymore, I want you to mail me the stuff so I can do it from home. I want to help. I like to help people.” n
Fired for having MS jane gagliardo’s story
When Jane Gagliardo was fired from her job in 1996, she knew it was because of her multiple sclerosis. Her manager had been openly uncomfortable with her disease and was reluctant to allow reasonable accommodations at work. Jane is the inspiration for a new book out this spring titled “Call to Witness,” the extraordinary and empowering story of a woman who stood up for what she believed in, even when it meant standing alone. Shortly after she was diagnosed in the late 1980s, Jane joined a large pharmaceutical company as an entry clerk. She enjoyed her job and got along well with all of her colleagues. Jane performed well and her career progressed over time. “I planned to stay there for the rest of my career,” she said. Everything changed when a new manager was appointed in 1996. Around this time, her company’s main office building was being renovated, which meant that Jane and her team were placed in a temporary structure. It was during the summer months and, like many other people living with MS, Jane found it difficult to cope with the heat. “It