Silver Linings

Shortly after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 1988, I was invited to serve on the board of trustees of a chapter of the National MS Society. I accepted and became chair five years later. Because of MS, I gave up a great career in computer graphics sales. But for the last 25 years, I have found a different calling: counseling newly diagnosed patients. Being able to make a positive difference in so many lives has given new meaning to my life. Even now, as I near my 80th year, I continue to help others through MS Friends, a nationwide call-in service. - Ted Wolek, Saginaw, MI

I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis in 2002 and had a thymectomy that year. I have been in quasi-remission ever since. About seven years ago, I joined Toastmasters International, which has changed my life. This nonprofit has taught me the core values of service, integrity, excellence, and respect. Learning to speak publicly has been my silver lining. - Greg Joseph, Ashburn, VA

I developed adhesive arachnoiditis, an irreversible, incurable, and progressive inflammation of the spinal cord, due to complications from surgery for adult-onset scoliosis. After being forced to retire, I found my silver lining through writing. I also lead a mindfulness group in my hometown. - Kathleen Rulka, Eau Claire, WI

I've had epilepsy since childhood. Because of my seizures, I missed a lot of school but eventually got a GED. I've never had a driver's license, and the last job I had was at a deli in a grocery store. I was fired after I had a seizure at work and narrowly missed the blade on the meat slicer. For years afterward, I seemed to sit in limbo, feeling useless. I spent most of my days reading books. One day I thought, why not try writing? Since then I've completed three novels in a five-part series. Another silver lining is my son, William, who will be 3 in November. He has a sensory processing disorder and is non-verbal. He is the most lovable, clever, beautiful boy. I think I may appreciate him even more because of the things I overcame to have him. Epilepsy has opened my eyes to my simple blessings. - Brandie Cummings, Rustburg, VA

Autistics Respond

As an autistic woman married to an autistic man, I want to thank you for using the word "autistic" in the cover feature ("The Story of CJ," August/September 2017). It means a lot to us to see the word "autistic" instead of the awkward, clinical-sounding workarounds such as "has autism" or "a person with autism." Many of us prefer to be called simply "autistic." - Kate Gladstone, Albany, NY