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with the spasticity in his legs, which Igor compares to “a hot knife going through my legs,” alongside an anti-depressant.
Exercise The implementation of an effective drugregimen was the first step in Igor’s hope to put off using a wheelchair. He re-committed himself to exercising under his physician’s advice who insisted that physical activity would help with the emotional toll of his diagnosis. Igor uses a stationary bike on a daily basis to maintain movement in his legs, as well as performing light abdominal exercises and occasional upper body strengthening with a pull up bar. In addition to improved mobility and noticeable physical changes, he stated that exercise has become ‘one of his partners’ in his battle against MS. Igor stated that a personal goal of his is to complete a MuckFest MS course but he realizes that his body will need to be paced in order to prevent injury.
Family Igor’s MS diagnosis has meant major lifestyle changes for both his and his family’s lives. Familial support has aided in his fight against MS especially since his wife, Raphaelle, spends three to four days a week away as an international flight attendant. As a result, Igor has taken on the role as the primary family caregiver while Raphaelle travels between the U.S., Japan and China throughout the week. At home, Igor cares
for their children Mahailia (14), Sabrina (12), Aidan (12) and Allegra (2). “My family has been a very strong support system,” says Igor. They are still processing that he is not the same dad they had before who could run, jump, and chase them around, but his care and compassion for their needs remains evident. Igor cooks meals for his children while his wife is away. Although difficult at times, Igor’s passion for cooking stems from his belief that his children should have access to healthy food choices. He lines up all the pots and pans ahead of time so that when it’s time to cook he has everything handy. The daily struggles of MS only account for half of Igor’s care, with the other half comprised of his dedication to Allegra, who has been diagnosed with Down syndrome. Looking after Allegra every day is challenging; however Igor is thankful for the opportunity to spend quality time with her. Caring for his daughter is a struggle due to his restricted mobility and fatigue, a common symptom of MS. Allegra visits an occupational therapist, as well as a physical therapist, but Igor hopes for additional access