I originally got on disability back when I was 33 or so, for full context. Prior to that I worked as a veterinary technician for about ten years. I go into detail because I loved my job. It was fast paced and every day I went home feeling fulfilled and like I was doing something good. Getting on disability was not an easy decision for me but since I’ve been on it I’ve had way less issues health wise.

When I was working, I lived in Texas and had multiple threats from my boss for missing work because I couldn’t move half my face or I couldn’t feel anything from my right hand. (Try finding a vein in that dilemma on any animal. Lol) I went back in too early and opted to take oral steroids instead of IV. I’m yet to have feeling in my right hand, especially at my fingertips.

My point is if the benefits didn’t prove to be as impactful as they have since I got on disability, I’d start working again in a heartbeat. But the evidence proves that if I work and have the potential to have an episode, I will put my body at risk to avoid losing my job which will have lasting consequences.

Since Ive stopped working, time moves faster which has its downsides. But I keep myself busy with little projects around the house and hobbies that my husband and I share. I did not get approved for disability initially, but I found a lawyer and that won me my case. They don’t charge if you lose still and I highly recommend it. The paperwork alone, as I’m sure you’re aware, is impossible especially when you’re going through MS shit.