Multiple Sclerosis

You can live more independently with multiple sclerosis.  We can help. We know what resources there are, which are best for you, and how to get them.  You will learn to more efficiently, safely, and independently move about your daily life.  

Working with you in the privacy and safety of your home, we determine the best action plan for your condition, environment, and budget.

 

Condition Overview 

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic progressive disease of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, brain stem, and optic nerves.  The disease erodes the myelin, which protects the nerve fibers of the central nervous system. The damaged nerves are then less able to send signals to and from the brain.  

Most people with multiple sclerosis do not become severly disabled and live a full life.

People with MS have different experiences and symptoms.  Some of the more common symptoms include:

  • Numbness

  • Bladder / Bowel dysfunction

  • Vision difficulties

  • Dizziness or balance difficulties

  • Spasticity

  • Fatigue

Failure to manage the symptoms of multiple sclerosis can lead to complications such as difficulty breathing, pressure sores, and urinary tract infections.

Most symptoms of MS can be managed through medication, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and cognitive remediation.  

Common Experiences and Challenges

As you near your lunch hour you are already tired.  Your lower back is aching from tightness in your muscles.  You are glad you have not had any more relapses this month.  You think about the remainder of your day. You still need to go to the store, pick up the kids, and make dinner.  Maybe tonight would be a good night for more takeout.

After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, your life will change.  As with other defining life changes, such as college, marriage, children, or retirement, you will begin to see your history as “life before MS” and “life after MS.”  The disease affects the way you interact with everyone around you.  

Coworkers – You can have an “attack” at any time.  You miss work suddenly and without the benefit of planning.  Because your multiple sclerosis is specific to you, it is difficult for fellow associates to research and understand.  You know you have a long and productive life ahead of you, but for many people, you are a victim.

Children – You struggle to maintain a routine for your children.  Each aspect of your children’s lives is affected: sports, vacations, holidays, shopping, and well, everything.  You have a deep fear one of your children might some day be diagnosed with MS.

Spouse – Your spouse understands your need to be independent, usually.  Your spouse understands the sexual dysfunction, usually. You do not envy your spouse going out with friends for the evening, usually.

Friends – Your friends walk in MS fundraisers.  They tell others about your condition and how strong you are.  They support and encourage you. Despite their efforts to learn and your efforts to explain, they do not understand.  At times, you envy them, deeply.

Doctors – You have the best doctors.  They are knowledgable, patient, and professional.  Everyone you know thinks highly of them. While you appreciate them, you wish you could go a while without seeing them.  Being on a first name basis with specialists is not something you ever wished for.

 

multiple sclerosis is part of your identity.  It impacts everyone you know and everything you do. 

Being Independent

You cannot slow the progression of this disease, but imagine if you could reduce its impact on you and your family.

Imagine how wonderful it will feel to continue to work and care for yourself, to be a productive member of society.  Just think of how impressed your coworkers will be at your determination to remain physically, mentally, and emotionally strong.  Consider the freedom you can regain by relearning to navigate the world as the new you. Imagine how independent you will feel as you move through your newly remodeled home.

You have made the decision to reduce the impact of this disease on your life.  You will be proud of your home, strong body, sharp mind, and your independence.

How We can Help

You can live more independently with multiple sclerosis.  We can help. We know what resources there are, which are best for you, and how to get them.  You will learn to more efficiently, safely, and independently move about your daily life.  

Working with you in the privacy and safety of your home, we determine the best action plan for your condition, environment, and budget.

Our independent living specialists are:

  • Qualified – Our independent living specialists are licensed and registered occupational therapists with advanced training to help you continue to live in the comfort of your home.  Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals specifically trained to help people be as independent as possible.  They are trained in anatomy, neurology, psychology, and development. This training enables occupational therapists to create an individualized plan of action to improve your independence and your life.  Occupational therapists are the ONLY professionals recognized by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to make recommendations for home modifications or remodeling for persons with disabilities. We work with only the best occupational therapists in the industry.

  • Knowledgeable – Our independent living specialists continually train on new and emerging products and services to help individuals with multiple slerosis.  In fact, our staff of specialists includes licensed instructors for continuing education (CEU) classes taken by nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and occupational therapists across the country.  We teach the other medical providers you currently see.

  • Trustworthy – Our independent living specialists are experienced professionals with exceptional knowledge and dedication.  We will be honest with you about what you can expect as your condition matures. Because we work for you, we will always champion your needs with technology companies, remodelers, and other modification providers.

 

Testimonial

“As a person living with multiple sclerosis Marnie came to my house, observed how I maneuvered in my environment and made home improvement and adaptive equipment recommendations based on my needs. Marnie  based her recommendations based on current and future needs. She connected me with resources that I was not aware that I qualified for and followed up with me to make sure I was satisfied. Marnie and Destination Home are AWESOME. She has set a high standard that all my providers MUST meet or TRY to surpass.”-Erika Holmes

Additional MS Resources